The goal of this project was to break conventional notions of what we “need” in a house and design for the client's specific lifestyle. Grape Studios conducted a comprehensive research process to define the parameters of the project, analyze the client's lifestyle and develop a clear idea for the project. The big idea centered around 3 principals. First, the space was to be modern, minimal and sustainable: focus on the experience with volume, light and interactions more than square footage. Second was to emphasis the interaction of the house with the rural site and draw from the owner’s rural background and her unconventional, creative interpretations. Third was to be super efficient: the budget is very modest and the client's desire is to have very little waste, a high level of sustainability and low maintenance.
These three challenges were approached with originality: The design met those goals and responded to the couple’s lifestyle as creative types. Functionally it translates into a 1,200 sf, two-bedroom, two-bath home on a modest budget. The design unveils a spacious home encouraging social activities and entertainment. A minimalist design approach was needed in order to spark creativity at all levels.