DOWNSIZE: LIVING LARGE IN A SMALL HOUSE
SHERI KOONES
2019
Before they built their new home, Architect Craig and his wife had been living in a historic 100-year-old house next to their current property for three years. They bought the house, which was built on what was originally two lots. At some point in history the two lots were merged, with the unused portion remaining that way because of unstable soil and groundwater issues. In order for Craig to build on this small property, he needed to pour footings up to 6 ft. deep in places. Some of the property from the large house was severed to build the new house. After the new house was built, Craig and his wife sold the original house next door to pay for the new one (which also has a separate basement apartment that the couple rents out to help pay the mortgage).
Craigs architectural practice focuses on sustainable, creative, infill development, and he saw this new construction project as an opportunity to showcase his
abilities on all those fronts. The old house was drafty and the energy bills were high. When Craig and his wife were preparing to build the new house they wanted to make sure it would be more energy efficient, not only for the lower utility bills but also for the comfort that comes with a well-insulated house. And Craig wanted to demonstrate to his potential clients that he could execute work that is complex and financially advantageous, but also beautiful and environmentally responsible, with a positive impact on the urban environment.
LINK: https://www.amazon.com/Downsize-Living-Large-Small-House-ebook/dp/B07Z5RW4J3
