The Half Moon 2 evolved from our popular Half Moon passive solar house plan. The exterior has been changed to a bungalow style. The front now faces west. The additional south glass captures more sun and the increase in thermal mass stores more of its heat. The kitchen now has views out to the south through the great room. The Half Moon 2 is a candidate for narrow lots. (Photo shows partial southern side of a reversed plan.)
Colors, materials, and decorating preferences, as well as possible
variations from the drawings, may be reflected in the above images and
photos - some of which may have been provided by one or more home owners.
The Half Moon 2 evolved from our popular Half Moon passive solar house plan. The exterior has been changed to a bungalow style. The front now faces west. The additional south glass captures more sun and the increase in thermal mass stores more of its heat. The kitchen now has views out to the south through the great room. The Half Moon 2 is a candidate for narrow lots.
First Floor
The main living areas on the south are vaulted and the master bedroom can be too. The desk nook near the front foyer allows you to work on a computer and still be near the center of family activity. The northwestern screened porch will be a pleasant summer sunset viewing area. The warmer, southwest deck will be a warm spot from which to watch the winter sun set. The master suite is still close to the laundry. From the master you have a gorgeous view south. (Our client can see Mount Hood.)
Daylight Basement
More than half of the basement is a large shop or studio to make working at home convenient. With the south views and sun, it has the same benefits as the main floor. The south east bedroom assures that guest also take advantage of the views. Garage Option The optional detached or attached two-car garage is designed to be located on the north, but could be placed other locations as well. It matches the home with lap siding.
Construction Info
The Half Moon 2 is designed to be constructed with a trussed roof, 6" walls (structural insulated panels could be used), and an ICF (insulated concrete form) foundation. The first floor has 8' ceilings with the south rooms vaulted up to the center. The north rooms could be vaulted too, but our client liked the contrast of high and low ceilings. We have designed the floors on the south side of the home to carry concrete for the thermal mass. The beautiful thermal mass finishes for them are endless.
Modification Ideas
Since these ideas may affect energy performance and structural integrity, they should only be undertaken with professional assistance.
- Remove the east bookcase wall in the dining area and create another first floor bedroom or study
- Expand the master bath to allow for a soaking tub - Add stone to the foundation, stucco to the first floor walls, and tiles to the roof for a new look
- Think decks and porches. More can be added all around.
- Rework the basement for more bedrooms and to become the kid's hideaway.
Schematic Site Plan
Daylight Basement Plan
First Floor Plan
Exterior Elevations (all four sides in detail)
Building Section (section through house with interior view)
Kitchen Elevations
Typical Wall Detail
Schematic Electrical Plans (showing outlets, switches, and lights)
Schematic Framing Plans (floor and roof)
Garage Option (foundation, floor plans, and exterior elevations)
Custom Energy Specs that describe any recommended adaptations for your climate – insulation values, glass type for the various windows, overhang lengths.
Thanks to Tony and Debbie for sending the photos of their reversed Half Moon 2 vacation home in Missouri.