before & after
Habitat Architecture's entry in the Homes by Architects Tour 2008
Project description: Major remodel and addition to a lakefront property built in 1980s. The home was poorly designed and lacked the space and character the client desired. The attached two-car garage with its angled orientation that blocked most of the front facade was identified as part of the problems with regards to the streetscape ascetic. The home was designed with an elevated front door and a long set of steps, which is highly undesirable in our winter climate and lacked the sense of entry. As the new owner, the client’s objectives were to add a full second story to the house to accommodate additional living space and to completely update the rest of the home. He also sought ideas with respect to the architectural style and concept. As the principle architect, Hamid Kashani – AIA redesigned the home by first eliminating the front steps and creating a more inviting front entry. He recommended an architectural style and exterior character, more sensitive to the environmental context, using stone and cedar shingles along with horizontal boards, and designed interior spaces that are functionally and spatially cohesive and pleasant by using the open floor plan concept. Extensive use of reclaimed wood for flooring, ceiling beams, and mantels, along with many other similar considerations, were part of an effort at building green in mind. Introduction of the vaulted great room ceiling that connects the upper story to the main floor and expansive wood deck and large glass openings at the lakeside to bring the outside in, were amongst many recommendations that were the bases for the final concept as “A cottage on the lake”.
In addition there were two other smaller structures in this property separate from the home that were part of this comprehensive renovation, both designed to reflect the main structure's architecture. One was a boat house and a the other a detached garage that was redesigned and converted to an indoor sport’s court. The sport's court includes its own bathroom and mechanical room, for heating and cooling. In addition the space included skylights to accomodate daylighting.
 Rear of the house facing the lake, with the new second story and a large deck. The white contrasting horizontal bands break up the vertical dimension of the rear facade.
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