ELMhouse

The ELMhouse proves that “square” doesn’t have to be a big box.  This design represents a challenge the architect gave herself to utilize the cost efficiency of a square building while creating a plan that is livable and unique.  Basic geometry dictates the house is less expensive to build due to minimized exterior wall surface.  The stair leading to the upper level is central, reducing hallways and giving more space to the upstairs bedrooms. 

But aside from the design efficiencies, the house itself is a carefully crafted, striking play of geometries.  The chestnut stained wood canopy at the entry extends from the facade, all the way into the foyer where it turns vertical and goes down to the floor, providing a beautiful wood wall entry feature.  A library immediately off the entry has built-in bookshelves and desk space, as well as room for a pair of comfy club chairs for reading.  Windows to the front of the house look out to a reflecting pool, while windows into the covered entry view landscaped gardens.  

The dining area also has views out to the reflecting pool as well as doors leading to a covered outdoor patio.  An adjustable patio cover in dark bronze means that the south facing patio can be open air, or with an adjustment of the roof via remote control the louvered roof panels close creating a watertight shelter.  Perhaps the most striking feature of the patio is the cascading water that, with a recirculating pump operating off the rainwater collection system, provides a semi-transparent and very unique privacy screen from the front yard.

The open kitchen has bar seating, a conversation cooking area, and beautiful ECO by Cosentino countertops.  All appliances are Energy Star, and all recessed light fixtures throughout the house are LEDs, meaning with average use the bulbs will last around 20 years!

The main living area is separated from the kitchen by a low wall with a recessed Eco Fuel fireplace and television connections for tv and equipment above.  Light floods into the kitchen and living areas via the large south facing windows that have a solar screening canopy to protect from harsh summer sun, while letting in the sun’s lower angled rays for passive solar heating in the winter.  The ceiling height in the living areas and kitchen is 15′, while all the other spaces on the main level are at 10′.

All of the bedrooms in the ELMhouse are located upstairs. The master suite has a large bathroom with a Kohler digital shower and a separate Bubblejet tub.  Dual vessel lavs sit on the ECO countertops, and there is a separate toilet room for privacy. 

There are three additional bedrooms, one with a private bath ideal for a guest suite, and a shared bath for the other two.  The main laundry room is also located on this level.

For more information about the ELMhouse including downloadable floor plans and a gallery of interior and exterior finishes please visit SUSTAINhouse.com.