Cedar Guesthouse
Residential
Design and construction of a new Guest House to include a carport and pool equipment room as a final Phase for an Architect’s residence originally built 13 years ago.
Emphasis is placed on aesthetic compatibility with previous phases, incorporating sustainable and locally sourced materials and enhancements to the private backyard area of the property.
Project Statement
The project is located in a suburban neighborhood at the rear of an existing residence, strategically placed adjacent to an existing rear porch and swimming pool, serving as a restroom and kitchenette for gatherings, as well as a guest house. The structure takes aesthetic cues from the design of the original residence, but pushes the envelope by including enhanced angular shapes and details. The property houses an AIA award winning Tree House originally on display as a featured competition winning model for the 2000 “Terrific Tree Houses” exhibit at Nashville’s Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. The architect retained the structure and created a second life for the Treehouse. Emphasis is placed on reusing salvaged brick, stone and locally harvested timbers from the original house build. New materials include as many locally harvested or sourced items as possible, including sustainable hardwoods from a local distributor, cast aluminum railing brackets from a local foundry, locally harvested pallet boards and ceramic tile from a local Italian owned factory. Mechanical systems comprise high efficiency variable flow refrigerant systems with programmable controls. Lighting controls include programmable time clocks. Both systems are easily modified through a cell phone app.
Framework for Design Excellence Narrative
Resources - Recycled content listings on new materials was a priority with locally harvested wood (other than basic framing lumber) used for exposed beams and interior wall finishes. Existing below-grade water/septic systems were used from part of original construction of the primary residence. In addition, salvaged materials from previous projects were used in an effort to mitigate costs and not add to the landfill. In addition, Red Grandis Eucalyptus wood was used for all exterior deck railings in concert with stainless steel cable railing, crafted and installed by the architect. Red Grandis is known to grow 20 feet per year, making it a highly sustainable material.
Economy -Although designed for the immediate use as a guest house and support for the pool function, this project was designed with longevity in mind and future uses. The project studies opportunities in tiny home design and the traditional “mother-in-law” suite and challenges the limitations of square footage while maintaining elevated design. This addition allows for future adaptability as owners can utilize it for personal use, rented out for passive income, or become a spare independent housing for elderly parents or adult children.
Well-Being - Multiple operable windows have been intentionally included with cross-ventilation strategies for low-use of HVAC systems during favorable weather. Large expanses of glazing to the southeast is included with wide overhanging roof lines to reduce direct sunlight throughout a given day. Furthermore, the project strongly connects the user to outdoor spaces, both shared and private balcony space. The architecture points to the treehouse and main house beyond, tying the elements into a community.
LEED/Green Certifications
N/A
Price/sq. ft. if provided
withheld
Photo Captions
1. Night view of the main entry elevation, including Program Summary and Project Narrative to the guesthouse.
2. Property Map and Site Plan showing the relationship of the new guesthouse to the existing primary residence.
3. Floor Plans and Sustainable / Locally Sourced Material Images.
4. Context Images - Drone Photos and an image of “The Tree Hugger” tree house, which served as the initial design generator for both the primary residence and the new guesthouse.
5. Backyard relationship of existing primary residence and new guesthouse.
6. The Guesthouse in context with its site.
7. Exterior elevation showcasing the study of form and material.
8. Dusk at the Guesthouse.
9. The Guesthouse – approach from the drive highlighting the use of custom wood detailing.
10. Interior and exterior details showing exposed wood surfaces and detailing.
11. The architect’s focus on celebrating the stair, both internally and externally.
12. Dusk at the Guesthouse.
