Northshore Home magazine highlights the best in architectural design, new construction and renovations, interiors, and landscape design.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1206063
57 efficient shape to heat and cool—the interior volume is maximized relative to the exterior wall and roof area," he says. "It's in the farmhouse vernacular, but it's a little taller than houses built in the 1700s—that's to capture volume out of the cubic space." Building science aside, the house just plain feels good. The single-story wing with a small porch wel- comes visitors into a spacious-feeling first floor housing the kitchen, great room, bath, and mudroom. "When you arrive at the house, there's no question about where to go—it draws you right in," Howell says. On the vaulted second floor, an office, two bedrooms, and a second bath round out the economical floor plan. As Howell puts it, "There's not an inch of wasted space." Furnishings are kept simple and streamlined. One of the most commented-on features is the homeowner's own craftsmanship—he made all of the custom kitchen cabinetry as well as some of the furniture. The rift-sawn white oak cabinets, soapstone countertops, sealed concrete first floor, and clear-grade maple second floor give the interiors a modern but warm feel. Artisanship is on display throughout—but its simplicity belies the build. At its core, this is a home full of complex systems working together to limit the structure and its inhabit- ants' environmental impact. "I think this house was a good choice," Howell concludes. "It aligns with their values and it's a great fit for the site." gologic.us; howellcustombuild.com