We were asked to make some improvements on a house in Marin County near San Francisco, some of which were seemingly unusual requests. The biggest issue was that the main entrance to the home is on the second level and the access to it is by an exterior staircase. After some research, we discovered that the original structure was a single level and had been constructed in a flood zone. A previous owner raised the house above flood level and created a new garage and storage room below.
The renovation work added approximately 300 SF (28 SQM) to the home, moved the main entry to grade level, and succeeded in moving the staircase indoors. The curb appeal to the home was also greatly improved.
This project required “story poles” to help define the future outline of the building. This was done to allow neighbors to understand the scope of the project and to make comments during public review period if desired. These are similar to Switzerland’s “ghost buildings“.
I worked on this project while with the California office of RIM Architects.
Project Details
- Completion: 2011
- Location: Kentfield, Califonia, USA
- Size: 2.100 SF (195 SQM)
Personal Project Responsibilities
- Solely responsible for production of all construction drawings
- Response to permit review and Owner comments
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