Dormer Addition

My clients for this dormer addition project in N Portland just sent me a note that they have permits! I am so excited for them, and excited to see the project built. It's a pivotal moment as a homeowner when you pull permits. Scary and thrilling at the same time - scary because this project is probably the most expensive thing you'll do aside from the original purchase of your home and thrilling because the new space will be so so so wonderful.

This is a small addition - just over 100 sf! But it will transform the existing attic space into a bedroom, walk-in closet, and full bath with a large soaking tub and a separate shower. There is even a nook at the top of the stair, which may become a tiny office space or a spot for reading. A new operable skylight at the top of the stair will allow air to flow through the house when it is open - a 'natural' air-conditioning technique.



Garage without loft, above

Garage with loft, above

For a home on a heavily treed lot in SW Portland, we are working on a new garage with living space above. In our initial design meeting, the owners identified a loft up above the living space as a priority. But, as we started to design, we realized that the new garage might have an overwhelming impact on the existing house. The owners wanted to see what the garage would look like next to the house, just to make sure.

With a couple of photograps and some google Earth measurements, we modeled the existing house. As you can see, the two extra feet of height that the loft would require does have a negative impact on the house. The owners may even feel it necessary to bring the roof down another foot or so, to give the house the heirarchy it deserves.

This is a classic case of how Spinnaker Architect works with clients - it's a true partnership. We expect our clients to be active participants in the design process, weighing functionality, cost, and aesthetics. We use advanced tools and knowledge of codes and construction to bring an idea alive, but in the end it is your house! We want our clients to be truly satisfied with the end results.

Dormer Addition Project

Back in 2010, I posted design sketches and permit drawings for this dormer addition in NE Portland, but I never posted finished photos.... until now! Shame on me, I should really post finished photos more regularly! In any case, what do you think, dear readers? That dormer pops just a TINY BIT from the ridgeline, but you almost don't notice it from the street.

In this design, we definitely weighed our design sense with our clients' budget. We needed to meet a strict budget, but the dormer also HAD to work, design-wise. I think this dormer works well for several reasons. First, it's stepped back enough to give it that true 'dormer' look. Believe me, it's not stepped back by much - we wanted to maximize space upstairs! Second, the little corner window in the dormer cuts back on the perceived bulk of the dormer. That particular little window, by the way, is required by Portland Zoning Code. If it wasn't facing the street, it wouldn't have been required. Still, I recommend that all dormer additions incorporate little side windows. Third, the overhangs at the dormer eave and rake edges give it a nice shadowline - not too floppy and not too trim. Just right. Finally, on the south side, the dormer windows align with windows below on the main level. Attention to this kind of detail helps the dormer to 'look like it has always been there.'

Attic Conversion Project

This morning, I'm putting the finishing touches on a schematic design package for a home in NW Portland. This family of 5 will become a family of 6 in a few short months, and so they want to claim the attic space above their garage. In addition, we will be building stairs up to the attic room, and expanding the main level laundry space.

At our design meeting on Thursday, we will discuss these two options. As you can see, the roof shape is different, and the size of the addition on the back of the garage is also different.

Option 1 Model Animation (above)

Option 2 Model Animation (above)