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.'

Dormer Project Option 1

Option 1

Option 1 maintains most of the existing roof structure. A new dormer pops up above the existing roof, as the existing ceiling height is lower than the code allows (generally 7 ft., with some exceptions). This makes for a rather odd looking west elevation, but it may offer costs savings over option 2.


Upper Level
Total area: 683 sf

1 Bedroom 1 (12x14) has a 2’-6” x 9’-0” window seat (or doggy bed) space at the existing west window. ‘His’and ‘Her’ closets are each 3x5, with the north wall only about 3 ft. tall. Little saloon-style shutter doors would work well on those closets, or curtains that can be drawn back on either side. A queen size bed is shown under 3 high windows – this mirrors the 3 windows in the living room below. See south elevation.

2 Bedroom 2 (8x8) is rather small. We actually need anything labeled ‘bedroom’ to be at least 70 sf, per code. This space could be left open (without a door) and used for Lisa’s writing nook, then Bedroom 3 could have a bit more space.

3 Bedroom 3 (8x8) has a 3’-6” x 4’-6” nook or closet.

4 The bathroom is 7x9, with a 3x4 shower nook on the south side. FIberfab shower units are 6’-8” tall, and showers must have at least 6’-8” of headroom. If we place the shower on the north side, we will use a skylight to get the extra couple of required inches of headroom. A countertop is shown at the west side, where headroom is required at the stair. This spot can be used for the sink, or for built in shelving.

5 At the stair landing, we suggest locating the north wall back a bit, so that where the top of that wall meets the ceiling is around 3 ft. Dashed lines indicate skylights, which will make the space feel brighter and bigger. A larger skylight at the stair landing may be necessary to gain the appropriate headroom.