The Adirondack Atrium was designed for our client who loved our Atrium plans, but desired a larger second floor and simpler roof line. His land also required that the house face southeast. The clerestory atrium still brings sunshine down into the central staircase and other interior spaces. Like many of our other Atrium plans, the house is designed to sit at a 45 degree angle to the sun with two sunny, south sides.

The Adirondack Atrium was designed for our client who loved our Atrium plans, but desired a larger second floor and simpler roof line. His land also required that the house face southeast. The clerestory atrium still brings sunshine down into the central staircase and other interior spaces. Like many of our other Atrium plans, the house is designed to sit at a 45 degree angle to the sun with two sunny, south sides.

First Floor

The main living area has views to the southeast and southwest, and opens to an east front porch and west patio. The kitchen is close by with many cabinets, a large pantry, and sunny window box. The away room can be used for an office, TV viewing, or a second bedroom. The master bedroom is on the cooler, quieter, north side. You can come and go from the master bathroom without disturbing the sleeping partner. The central hallway features glass block, mail nook, and space for boots and coats near the two family entries.

Second Floor

The spacious second floor is full of delightful spaces starting with the atrium and overlook of the great room. The variety of vaulted ceilings and nooks creates character. The walk in attic and optional bonus room are conveniently located. From an energy standpoint, bonus rooms function best for seldom used spaces since the roof, walls, and floor are exposed.

Foundation

The basement has endless possibilities including workshops and game rooms with the interior and exterior stairs.

Garage

The attached, extra large garage can accommodate many vehicles and workshop, storage equipment around the sides.

Construction Info

The first floor and basement ceilings are 9' while part of the great room and upstairs are vaulted. Since each south side of glass receives sun only half of the day, no additional thermal mass is needed to maintain interior comfort. Of course, concrete slab construction always helps with thermal performance and is our first recommendation for passive solar homes.

Modification Ideas

Since changes may affect energy performance and structural integrity, they should be done with professional assistance.

- For smaller lots, detach and move the garage
- For larger families, add shed dormer for another bedroom upstairs
- Replace the fireplace with a TV entertainment center
- Make a "u" shaped kitchen with a raised breakfast bar to block the view of the kitchen from the dining area
- Turn the laundry into a full bath for bedroom 2 and move the laundry to one of the master closets
- For land that slopes to the south, add a daylight basement

Read more about the drawings available for Sun Plans.