Project Description
This custom in-fill project for a retired couple features a compact single family residence with a detached garage apartment.
The owners desired a low maintenance, energy-efficient home for aging-in-place, in a Bungalow/Craftsman style compatible with the varied but historic character of its North University neighborhood.
Two themes are reflected in the home design: the visible interior and exterior design is expressed in a traditional style that is both modern and fresh while the inner workings of the house features new technologies such as LED lighting, a 7.2KW solar array, sophisticated programmable thermostats, floor stopper water valves, and a tankless water heater.
Set on a narrow, sloping site, the main house contains two bedroom suites: one for the homeowners and a second for guests. The upstairs suite is intended for first occupancy by the owners–while both are mobile. The downstairs suite features wide doorways, a master bath with a roll in shower, and room for a wheelchair under the vanity. The home’s design takes advantage of its second story view to the UT Tower and addresses privacy concerns with the street and adjacent neighbors. Several screened porches extend living outdoors.
The garage apartment is intended as a guest house with its own compact kitchen. The living space is extended to the second story porch. A two bay garage under the apartment contains extra storage space and is outfitted with an electric car charging station.
The landscape design for the lot includes steel planters with water wise and xeriscape plants with drip irrigation.