Classico Kitchen

As part of a larger whole house remodel, this kitchen evolved to be very special as the owners are 'foodies plus' by interest and for their business. Features of note: the kitchen sink is placed to enjoy the best view (should be obvious but often isn't considered),  excellent flow for cooking,  the open plan concept is taken further with outdoor views and daylight in from 3 sides, a true cooking fireplace, a window seat, a pantry, and a very large island. An intentionally large one. The dining room table is eliminated. Seating is at the island. This brings everyone to the event of cooking, eating, enjoying.

'Pretty Good House'

Posted on February 20 in GreenBuildingAdvisor.com is the article "Regional variations on the 'Pretty Good House'. They define 'pretty good house' as a house that seeks to balance construction cost and energy performance without being constrained by the dictates of existing green building programs or rating systems.   i.e. be practical, be effective, make smart choices, find the right blend that fits your particular situation. This is how we approached the Heeschen Residence. We (I include the owner here) looked at, borrowed and incorporated good energy efficiency and sustainable, green building practices from many green building programs. Let's name this approach: the "just right house". 

http://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/blogs/dept/green-building-blog/regional-variations-pretty-good-house?

It should be said about green building programs and certification - there is value in certification as it provides a record of achieved benchmarks. It sets a standard for the builders, particularly if they are not so well versed or committed to sustainable, green building. The certificate is a 'value added' feature should the home or building be sold.

CW - Modern Variation

These sketches show the CW house in Cupertino in 'modern'. Same lot, same views, similar program, same constraints from the city, rather different outcome  . . . . . . .

A DESIGN KEY

Addition by Subtraction. When the design is to remodel or add onto a home often the best place to start is by removing the extraneous. Pare back to the original.Then proceed.

From the Archives

View from the kitchen sink!

 

Goals for this addition: open up the ocean view from the kitchen, create an 'attached' green house, casual dining room, 2nd. access to the living room (through the shoji), a more open plan, passive solar heating.

Very Cool

Ogimachi Global Dispensing Pharmacy by ninkipen!

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