The house is located in Conyers Farm, a residential development, known for its’ grand estates and polo fields. Although the site is just over 10 acres, due to wetlands and conservation areas only 3 acres adjacent to Upper Cross Road could be developed for the house. These restrictions, along with building setbacks led to the linear planning of the house. To maintain a larger back yard, the garage wing was ‘cranked’ towards the street. The bent wing hinged at the three-story turret, reinforces the rambling character and suggests a sense of enclosure around the entry drive court. Designed in the tradition of late nineteenth-century American country houses. The house has a variety of living spaces, each distinct in shape and orientation. Porches with Greek Doric columns, relaxed plan, juxtaposed masses and shingle-style exterior details all contribute to the elegant “country house” character.

Photo by: Russell Abraham
Large minimalist three-story metal exterior home photo in San Francisco

The original structure at Yankee Point was a simple 1970s home with “good bones.” Unfortunately, it was also a case where less-than-poetic considerations threatened to eclipse design. Setbacks, height and footprint restrictions and other building regulations had boxed in the renovation to the point where there was literally nowhere left to build. Fortunately, the house sat 6' above grade on the ocean side. With some three-dimensional ingenuity, this ultimately provided ample space to add a new full height lower level without exceeding stringent lot coverage limitations. Today, upon entering the residence, you catch a quick glimpse of the ocean views and of the cascading roof lines designed to echo the motions of ocean waves beyond. The space opens up as you move toward the ocean to reveal a panoramic view.

This project is truly one of those designed by setbacks. The owners fell in love with the setting, sitting on a bank above the river, but a sewer easement through the center of the property, parallel to the road, cut the building envelope in half. Our goal was a 1,400 sq ft home with outside space on the river side of the home. We started with an attached garage concept, which is very desirable in our snowy climate, but it was forcing a compromise with no patio on the back of the house. We negotiated an agreement with the city staff to allow us to build a breezeway over the 25’ sewer easement. The breezeway was designed and constructed to be removable by forklift in 3 pieces, if it ever becomes necessary to work on the sewer line, buried about 20’ below grade. The owners had varying taste in the style of home they wanted, one on the more traditional end and one on a more contemporary bent. They also wanted low maintenance materials. The result is a simple gable form with over-sized knee braces and gable end vents for function as well as character. The home is finished with cedar shingle siding with a horizontal corrugated metal wainscot below. We opened the back of the house up with windows and sliding doors, giving great views into the trees and down to the river below. The greatest feature is the back patio perched on the bank with the sound of the river rising up from below.

This home, built in 1847, is the oldest included in the Lee County Historic Register. The master bath and kitchen had framing dating to the original build. Both rooms were out of square and plumb. The owners decided to tear out and square up. Had they not, the kitchen, with addition, would have a 5” slope across 25’. The entire home features original heart pine floors. The foyer floor had been refinished so many times that it required stabilization from below. The surface was so thin that it required the services of a specialist to sand before we refinished, saving the original floor. The second floor was added earlier this century and now required a large engineered beam to allow for the kitchen addition. The kitchen windows are now Marvin brand clad wood (TDL). If you look closely, you will see we used a rounded bead on the archway. The daughter’s bath is contained in a very small space. We built the knee wall. The knee wall had to be beveled to accommodate the walk door swing and access the toilet. Rohl sinks were used in both kitchens and bathrooms, along with unlacquered Newport Brass faucets to allow them to patina to a beautiful and natural aged look. The new kitchen island countertop we installed is Honed Kronos Dolomite with smoked soapstone surrounds. There is a new “hidden room” above the kitchen featuring a Murphy cabinet door entry. The second flat roof floor deck, built over 20 years ago, had floor paver tiles that required a custom match. We sliced brick to achieve this. This home site features a large oak tree. The owners appreciate the sensory enhancements it provides and are determined to preserve the backyard centerpiece. This necessitated an 18” from edge railing setback. The railing features a herringbone design which we rebuilt for proportionality following the edge setback. This project required a rework of the massive roof valleys feeding the copper conductor boxes which was completed using 10’ PVC sheets, 6” copper downspouts and copper conductor boxes. We also added ½ round copper gutters with copper downspouts. We then added a steel frame with copper standing seam eyebrow roof over the 2nd floor balcony door. The traditional tongue and groove front porch floor warped and buckled. We replaced it with sassafras wood after rebuilding the framing to accommodate the new flooring. After extensive Building Science research, we installed 2 dehumidifying fans in the front porch crawl space to keep the porch floor boards smooth. We found the original 18’X18”X16’ tall original columns had some rot. During repair, we found structural defects. Replacement involved placing the 4x4 iron posts on a concrete foundation. We built new columns of sassafras then wrapped the iron posts.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

dbp architecture pc
Example of a small classic detached two-car garage workshop design in New York

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

Two car garage addition to a beautiful home in the Hingham Historic District. This project required approval by the Hingham Historic Commission.
Example of a classic exterior home design in Boston

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

This project is truly one of those designed by setbacks. The owners fell in love with the setting, sitting on a bank above the river, but a sewer easement through the center of the property, parallel to the road, cut the building envelope in half. Our goal was a 1,400 sq ft home with outside space on the river side of the home. We started with an attached garage concept, which is very desirable in our snowy climate, but it was forcing a compromise with no patio on the back of the house. We negotiated an agreement with the city staff to allow us to build a breezeway over the 25’ sewer easement. The breezeway was designed and constructed to be removable by forklift in 3 pieces, if it ever becomes necessary to work on the sewer line, buried about 20’ below grade. The owners had varying taste in the style of home they wanted, one on the more traditional end and one on a more contemporary bent. They also wanted low maintenance materials. The result is a simple gable form with over-sized knee braces and gable end vents for function as well as character. The home is finished with cedar shingle siding with a horizontal corrugated metal wainscot below. We opened the back of the house up with windows and sliding doors, giving great views into the trees and down to the river below. The greatest feature is the back patio perched on the bank with the sound of the river rising up from below. Photo By: Tom Stewart - http://tomstewartphoto.photoshelter.com/

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

This home, built in 1847, is the oldest included in the Lee County Historic Register. The master bath and kitchen had framing dating to the original build. Both rooms were out of square and plumb. The owners decided to tear out and square up. Had they not, the kitchen, with addition, would have a 5” slope across 25’. The entire home features original heart pine floors. The foyer floor had been refinished so many times that it required stabilization from below. The surface was so thin that it required the services of a specialist to sand before we refinished, saving the original floor. The second floor was added earlier this century and now required a large engineered beam to allow for the kitchen addition. The kitchen windows are now Marvin brand clad wood (TDL). If you look closely, you will see we used a rounded bead on the archway. The daughter’s bath is contained in a very small space. We built the knee wall. The knee wall had to be beveled to accommodate the walk door swing and access the toilet. Rohl sinks were used in both kitchens and bathrooms, along with unlacquered Newport Brass faucets to allow them to patina to a beautiful and natural aged look. The new kitchen island countertop we installed is Honed Kronos Dolomite with smoked soapstone surrounds. There is a new “hidden room” above the kitchen featuring a Murphy cabinet door entry. The second flat roof floor deck, built over 20 years ago, had floor paver tiles that required a custom match. We sliced brick to achieve this. This home site features a large oak tree. The owners appreciate the sensory enhancements it provides and are determined to preserve the backyard centerpiece. This necessitated an 18” from edge railing setback. The railing features a herringbone design which we rebuilt for proportionality following the edge setback. This project required a rework of the massive roof valleys feeding the copper conductor boxes which was completed using 10’ PVC sheets, 6” copper downspouts and copper conductor boxes. We also added ½ round copper gutters with copper downspouts. We then added a steel frame with copper standing seam eyebrow roof over the 2nd floor balcony door. The traditional tongue and groove front porch floor warped and buckled. We replaced it with sassafras wood after rebuilding the framing to accommodate the new flooring. After extensive Building Science research, we installed 2 dehumidifying fans in the front porch crawl space to keep the porch floor boards smooth. We found the original 18’X18”X16’ tall original columns had some rot. During repair, we found structural defects. Replacement involved placing the 4x4 iron posts on a concrete foundation. We built new columns of sassafras then wrapped the iron posts.

We designed the BSB Laneway House to fit a narrow (7.6m / 25’) lot and achieve 3 goals: 1. Maximize interior living space; 2. Preserve privacy between the suite and its existing neighbours; and 3. Meet all bylaws without relaxations. The massing follows the side and height chamfering setback rules, leaving us with some creative solutions to fit everything in. We stacked 2 of the 3 parking stalls within a single-wide garage using a lift & pit system for any-time access to either vehicle. Next to the garage is the third stall, which recesses the entry away from the lane and can double as a patio. The main floor hosts the front entry and master suite, both filled with natural light from the perimeter transom windows that are high enough to limit sight lines to/from neighbours. Linear millwork closets provide ample storage and concealed utilities. The upper level is a wide-open floor plan, perfect for entertaining. Skylights and large windows at either end flood the space with light throughout the day. The raised kitchen and dining space leads out to the rooftop terrace above the garage. There’s even an optional basement for even more usable space and storage!