Site size: 20 acres Project size: 4,986 square feet Program: A new residence on a working vineyard takes advantage of a magnificent country site and allows the owners to have greater involvement in the winemaking process. Location: A gently sloping knoll surrounded by 20 acres of vineyards for pinot noir grapes. Solution: The architects designed the rectilinear house with a double-height living-dining area overlooked by the family room on the mezzanine-like second level. A relatively opaque and private entry courtyard on the north side contrasts with the fully glazed south side, which includes large sliding doors that open onto a
Site size: 3,861 square feet Project size: 5,480 square feet Program: Two connected yet disparate structures'which had accommodated a flower bulb distributor for more than half a century'were converted into a single house for owners with a passion for music and entertaining. Location: A highly visible site on a busy residential thoroughfare in Toronto. Solution: With only a few, carefully placed windows on the street-facing fa'ade, the house provides shelter from the busy road. A long hallway leads from the entrance to the protected interior foyer. The architects organized the living spaces around the foyer and an interior courtyard. A
Site size: 1,620 square feet Project size: 2,134 square feet Program: The renovation of a 15-foot-wide row house that can adapt to the evolving needs of its owners, including space for a rental apartment. Location: A small site in urban Brooklyn, New York. Solution: The architects gutted the existing structure and extended the rear of the house. They carefully arranged the bathrooms and kitchens, as well as a second stair (highly unusual for a row house of this size) to allow the owners to rent out part of the second floor. As their needs change, the owners could quickly and
In Northern California, William McDonough + Partners designs an energy-neutral residence rooted strongly in its surroundings For sustainability guru William A. McDonough, FAIA, buildings aren't vampires sucking up natural resources, but regenerative systems that should improve the environment. “The idea of 'getting to zero' for water or energy use is ridiculous. Is that the best we can do?” he says. This ethos, the guiding principle of his design career, is clearly embodied by the Meadow Farm House, completed in 2013 for a family whose values align closely with his own. The building site, a secluded three-acre perch in northern California,
Site size: 7.2 acres Project size: 1,776 square feet Program: The renovation of a holiday house that preserves existing materials while adding on to suit a growing family. Location: A rural portion of northern New South Wales, Australia with a subtropical climate. Solution: Working within a limited budget, the architects added a new breathable facade along the entire length of the single-story structure. The multifunctional wood frame fa'ade creates an open plan by supporting the ceiling rafters, and contains glazed sliding doors fitted with insect screens and retractable slatted blinds to extend the view and provide security when not occupied.