Sliding Door

This house is unique in that the original was a narrow house on a lot that was wider than most.  The client needed more space, but had a limit to how much we could add to the rear, so it was decided that we would create a relatively shallow addition that harnessed more of the lot width.

The strategy was a common one: a rear addition that would accommodate a new kitchen and master suite, with interior alterations throughout and a generally more open plan at the ground floor.

The kitchen design is a common one in relatively narrow spaces that have opportunity for windows on only one wall, and that wall wants to be completely filled with glass.  One wall of the kitchen becomes the primary wall with range, fridge, upper cabinets, and all the elements that want a full wall.  An island is used as the secondary kitchen component with sink, dishwasher and lower cabinets.  The space on the other side of the island accommodates seats, and also must serve as the circulation spine through the space.  When done successfully, it encourages visitors to use this space to access the back yard and not intrude on the cook.  The wall on the other side of this circulation spine is what I call the tertiary kitchen wall.  Here we have full height pantry spaces, closet spaces, and a desk.  But the feature that draws the eye the most is the sliding barn door that allows the kitchen to be closed off from the dining and living if desired.

The second floor cantilevers slightly beyond the ground floor addition, and extends toward the street to create much more width over a much greater portion of the 2nd floor.  This allowed enough width for the master suite to include an ensuite and separate bed area that both have windows to the back yard.  Special engineering care was taken to cantilever over an existing side bay with stained glass windows, such that no loads were imposed on this existing feature.

Awards

BILD Best Renovation $300K-$500K 2017

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