In addition to a commitment to building green, our clients for this project shared with us three particular goals: To connect to a courtyard or garden; to take advantage of a spectacular Bay view; and to harvest rainfall as a precious resource. These simple ideas became the main form-givers for the house. We kept in mind the Roman Impluvium, an ancient courtyard building type whose roofs flow to a central cistern. In our case, the site suggested an open courtyard linked to a restored native landscape.
On many GHA projects we use 3D modeling to assist clients in visualization, and to work with neighbors and reviewing agencies.
We were able to confirm using the 3D model that the house would not block the views of uphill neighbors or pedestrians
A kitchen/dining/sitting area reaches to the distant view, while a central two-story living room links daily life to the more immediate sensory delights of a fully restored native plant garden and courtyard.
This poster describes the home’s rainwater catchment system, designed by Watersprout in collaboration with GHA, and permitted by GHA.
© Photography by M. Kibbey, Structural Engineer Kevin Donahue, General Contractor W.B. Elmer & Company, Rainwater Catchment System by WaterSprout, Sunshade Fabrication by Jenny Hurth, Elbow Grease Designs