Through the photos attached, you can see how the prescriptive bylaws of this seaside community shaped the final building massing. We were not able to add the shed dormer to the left of the primary gable, as that area falls outside of the building envelop. The primary roof ridge is pre-existing, but taller than is currently permitted. This is why I had to step the building down where we extended it to the right. As architects, our job is to work within the confines of zoning restrictions, client needs, engineering limitations and site context. We produce our best work when we meet these challenges head-on.
My last trip to the site was a time for systems coordination. I have been meeting with the HVAC contractor, plumber and electrician to coordinate trades and make certain that things like ventilation grilles don’t end up in either unsightly locations or in configurations that are at conflict with how the house will be furnished and used.
By looking at our point of construction, it may seem early. But all plumbing, lighting and appliance selections should be made by now. We have assembled comprehensive fixture schedules that are keyed into the drawings. Once fixtures and finishes have been selected, we draw them into the interior elevations, indicating tile layouts, lighting and plumbing fixture locations and any other specific product installations that will need to be accommodated. It is this early coordination that limits the number of costly mistakes that can be made along the way.
