BY CLINT MILLER, ARCHITECT AIA
Architectural splendor is attainable even with a home built with a modest footprint and—more importantly—with green values. Neither size nor the expense of lavish finishes is necessary to achieve this. Consider that the method lies in the arrangement of the living spaces and a bold connection to natural light. This includes floor plans that are arranged to offer multiple views through the home, to unveil the most interesting parts celebrating the living spaces, and to engage the outdoors.
WINDOWS ARE AN IMPORTANT DESIGN ELEMENT
Many large and taller spaces do not always create a compelling outcome. Rather, splendor can be achieved with an expanse of floor-to-ceiling glass that boldly connects to the landscape. This helps blur the lines between interior and exterior. Alternatively, a long, horizontal expanse of glass can add a touch of boldness without being particularly tall, allowing a nine-foot ceiling to feel very comfortable. This ceiling height can keep the cost of the windows and general construction at a reasonable price point.
Modern technology has improved the performance of glass by reducing solar gain into the home. Many transparent metallic coatings applied to the window panes reduce heat and glare. Also, the use of semi- transparent roller blinds can retain the view while reducing heat build up. These types of blinds are generally motor-driven and retract easily when the sun’s rays are not directly on the glass.
FAVOR SHAPE OVER SIZE AND HEIGHT
Many architects favor a stretched rectangle in architectural design, making for a structural arrangement that imbues simplicity and beauty. Also, the rectangular plan can look more interesting and provide greater opportunity for natural light than if the house is arranged as a square. The longer I practice architecture, the more I realize that connection to adjacent spaces, connection to natural light, and connection to the outdoors is far more important than the size or height of a room.
A more modest-sized home will contribute the most towards affordability and operating cost which translates to use of fewer resources and less energy to operate the home, ensuring greater sustainability. With continued rising construction costs, it is time to consider how to make our homes more efficient through the use of high-performance insulation and locally sourced and sustainable materials. And remember — when spaces are arranged to engage the outdoors, even homes with a smaller footprint can have homeowners feeling as though they are living large.
