Nature’s Corner is a comfortable home for two with extra large rooms and closets that will make possible wheelchair maneuvering a breeze. Be nestled close to nature with the numerous windows that allow views to the outside and sunshine to the inside.  Watch the sun rise from the master bedroom or the large southeastern porch.  Watch the sun set from the southwest porch which is one of three first floor outdoor living spaces. Enjoy watching summer sunsets in the northwest from the right-sized front porch.

First Floor

The master bedroom on the cooler, north side of the home allows for larger living areas on the south including a large east screened porch which could become a glassed sun room.  The central bay window dining area will provide a panoramic southern view.

Planning ahead for many future scenarios places an optional elevator at the center of the home. The extra large kitchen and great room have plenty of room for two to cook and a large group to mingle.  The laundry, bath 2 and large pantry make for a very functional work side of the home. 

The opposite, private master bedroom size has room for more than just sleeping. The east end can be a sitting area, study or exercise space.  The master bath has separated his and hers ends. 

Bedroom two is placed so that depending upon where the doors are placed, it can serve many functions. It can serve as a private study that doubles as a small guest room or an away room where one can read or exercise in private.

Daylight Basement

The daylight basement can have at least one bedroom and a large recreation area.  The central bath serves both these rooms and is also close to the workshop.  The centrally located optional elevator makes bringing groceries up to the kitchen trouble-free.  The north storage or mechanical doubles as a storm shelter while the south walk-out patio provides an outdoor living area.

The extra large garage tucked under the house makes for an economical location for parking all types of vehicles with plenty of extra roof for storage and workshop equipment. South-facing windows let in plenty of light and the central bay window would be perfect for a winter greenhouse with the extra long windows.

Construction Info

Insulated concrete forms keep the basement warm and reduce condensation while the 6” first floor walls can be constructed with one of many techniques.  (The Custom Energy Specs that come with construction orders typically list about four variations suitable for each particular climate.) Scissor roof trusses add a bit of character to the south rooms while still allowing for extra thick ceiling insulation. Both floors have 9’ ceilings providing adequate room for utilities.  Tile floors in the south rooms help absorb the sun’s heat.

Modification Ideas

Since these ideas may affect energy performance and structural integrity, they should be undertaken with professional assistance. 

- Reverse the plan for land that slopes to the east

- For flat lots, remove the basement, build on a slab for more thermal mass, and add a garage to the west

- Remove the walls around bedroom 2 for a study area open to the living area.