Multigenerational Age-in-Place Rancher

THE OBJECTIVE

The homeowner wanted an insulated concrete formed (ICF) home that offered privacy, seclusion in nature, and a low maintenance property. Build requirements were age-in-place aspects, dedicated design for pets, a Feng Shui influenced floor plan and a cohesive layout for multi-generational living.

HOW IT WAS ACHIEVED

The 4 ft foundation and 10 ft walls provide exceptional soundproofing and insulation; unusual in single-family, ICF-construction. This home is purposefully situated well back on a 350 x 100 ft lot — so less visible from street. Surrounded by mature trees and vegetation, this is a desirable urban-setting. The remote-control driveway gate, cameras, and long sightlines appeal to the client’s strong desire for privacy. Shades are installed instead of blinds so the client can see out, without others seeing in. The landscape is low-maintenance with 3 ft high boulders, drought-tolerant plants, and a manageable single lawn-area.

The floor plan is as open as possible within the constraints of Feng Shui; a partition-wall between the foyer entry and rear windows prevents qi from flowing outside; the kitchen is located away from the south-west corner which is an unlucky aspect for food and entertaining; the rooms are all large and airy, loaded with natural light. The flow from common areas and entertaining areas, to private areas and utility areas, is easy and seamless but firmly guided. As the office is not a priority room, it is located in the ‘unlucky’ southwest corner. Green space is found to the west. Mechanical closets are set away from the living spaces.

Constructed for aging-in-place, the width of hallways, room sizes and room entries conform with Certified Aging In Place (CAPS) design standards. As dog-lovers, the clients requested a dedicated, elevated dog-wash in the mud room that is functional at a comfortable, ergonomic working height.