As more and more building is done in Mountain towns, the last of the available lots are being bought and built on. Many of these lots were left because they were thought to be too hard to build on. Close to town with great views, these lots tend to be steep with difficult access and are very challenging to work with for Architects and engineers alike. Traditionally, sites like these were approached with stacked floors and walkout lower levels, but today’s owners want one-level living and access to the ground from most of the house. At GB Design Build, we find this particular challenge drives the home’s concept and form resulting in projects that are visually and functionally integrated into the landscape.
Siting of the home is the first obstacle. Thoughts on the home’s location on the lot, orientation to views, and elevation drive the initial design. Working with Civil and Structural engineers site planning is often a result of what can be done with the driveway to reach the desired location. A balance must be struck between desired and practical results and a team effort with the Client is the only way to get there. In the end, it is clear when a project is forced on the site and more clear when the site and the structure work together.
At GB Design Build, we are embracing these difficult sites for the challenges and the design opportunities they offer.