Progress continues on this Lake Byllesby remodel.
The Owner is doing much of the work himself, taking his time and enjoying the process. The winter months will be spent working on the interior of the home.
VIVUS has and can tackle variances, tight sites, existing footings above the frost line, grade issues and convenants. We enjoy the challenge and delight in the satisfaction of our clients.
John Tripp’s work is coming along well on East Fourth Street in Northfield. This project expands the existing kitchen and provides space for an entryway, laundry facilities, and a bathroom. The addition is on the right side, behind the pickup truck.
As with may historic renovation projects, this one had its challenges. Limited space on site, unknown existing structure capacity, existing plumbing and electrical, and the desire to add significant amenities to the home.
The small addition takes its cues from the front porch, staying low and discreet. Details from the existing home are replicated for a good fit. The final shape is the result of multiple study options of smaller additions. Kudos to our client for understanding the interior value a larger exterior addition afforded: ample dining area, efficient kitchen, and reasonable other spaces inside. This decision cost more upfront but will result in more functional space and no future remodeling to this area.
Our architectural design services can help improve your home, whether in Northfield, Lonsdale, Minneapolis, or London!
The plants are in place on our first residential green roof!
Now in their first season, the seedums are taking root and getting established. A soaker hose is being used to water for now As they fill out, the erosion control mat will become less visible, and the roof will retain more rainwater than it currently does. We estimate that the roof should reduce runoff by 50% a that point; however, other portions of the roof drain onto this roof through downspouts, so we are asking a lot of these plantings!
The homeowners installed the multi-layered system and planted on top of the rubber membrane provided by the contractor. They blogged about it in two parts: Part One and Part Two. Take a look, they’ve done well in explaining the process.
Last week I swung by our most recent project on Prior Lake, to check up on progress. This was a challenging site, limited in width but quite deep. The depth was deceptive, though, since lakeside setbacks forced the home into a small area along the road.
The photo above belies the existing home, as we expanded in five directions (including up). Working closely with the homeowner, our design process included multiple options to balance program needs with other project parameters.
The primary goal was to upgrade this split level home. A grand entry was desired, allowing view to the lake from the portal and avoiding entry mid-level. An interior sense of airiness, openness and visual connection to the lake formed the lakeside facade and the roofline modifications. Vehicle storage was designed to accommodate additional storage for the homeowner’s real estate investment business. Interior amenities added include a new kitchen, expanded master suite, bar, home theatre area, mudroom, family room and living room.
For a sense of what the house looked like, see the image below.
VIVUS Architecture and Design’s vision helped transform this home to fit our clients’ desires; we welcome your call.
The exterior of this extensive remodel on Lake Byllesby is steadily being buttoned up this summer. As the photo shows, housewrap and soffits were nearing completion by the 4th of July.
Stay tuned for future updates!
The first floor platform is installed and framing continues on Lake Byllesby. The form of this major whole-house remodeling is visible now when compared with the design images prepared by VIVUS. The angled wall an the left of the construction photo aligns with the angled wall on the design image. It will actually be enclosed by the 1-story porch when it is framed. Another point of reference is the triple window at the lower level’s right side.
We are available to help you make choices about buying a home.
Recently, we provided just such a service for a client moving to Mankato, Minnesota.
They were seeking a universally accessible home, including adding an elevator, among other requirements. Through a local realtor, the field was limited to two homes. Mary and I met our clients on site at both homes and listened to their thoughts while walking through each home. Afterward, we discussed our professional opinions of each house, its possibilities, and its potential liabilities relative to the stated budget.
One house sat on a tight lot and would require substantial interior remodeling along with an elevator addition. Hallways were too narrow and the bathroom would require a complete makeover. Also, the owner wished to remodel the kitchen, occupy an unfinished basement, and consider exterior appearance upgrades. The other house seemed to be a better fit. It required very little interior remodeling and had ample space for an addition. The basement was already finished, so both the project budget and timeline could likely be met. However, this site faced annexation costs in a few years and an immediate septic system upgrade.
Upon our recommendation, our client opted to pursue the second house and to look into the details of annexation and septic upgrades.
Unfortunately, the costs of the septic system upgrades were too high to be feasible.
The realtor was able to find another house that met the basic criteria, so we studied that home, too. Upon review with the owner, we determined that an interior elevator shaft addition would be the best value. We provided some preliminary review of the options for the elevator location, discussion of ease and cost of desired remodeling features, and agreed that, in the end, this is probably the right house for our client. Adding a three-stop elevator would allow complete accessibility to the garage and both levels. While more expensive, this possibility will greatly enhance the year-round accessibility of this home.
Currently, they are working on an offer to purchase the home. They commented on their comfort level making the offer, knowing that their needs can be met; confident that the modifications and purchase will be less costly than starting from scratch; and informed of several possibilities to make the house a home over the next few years.
This was all done without drawing a line. When the offer is accepted, we will begin drawings to fit the elevator into the existing home.
We would be honored to assist you with your housing decisions, whether adding, buying or building.
