Chris Doehrmann Architect, Inc.
doehrmann.com
Chris Doehrmann, AIA
Modern Ramsey Transformation
Project Type: Remodel & Addition
Sponsors: Minnesota Fine Homes (builder)
The owners of this home in Ramsey purchased it for its rural location and wooded views, but the existing home lacked the “wow factor” they desired and did not support the way they wanted to live. They wanted to transform their nondescript late 1960s house into a clean modern home that was visually dynamic with a layout that would give them an open floor plan and one level living.
To achieve their goals on the exterior, the gables, vinyl siding, and small windows were replaced with shed and flat roofs, composite panels, shiplap siding, panoramic windows, and glass garage doors.
To transform the layout and achieve the open floor plan with one-level living, the stairs were reversed, and the open porch was enclosed with a flat roof providing the necessary space to complete the main level master suite.The old living room became the new master bedroom, and the new shed roof design allowed for a vaulted ceiling in the new living room, creating the dynamic space they lacked in the original design.
This radical transformation utilizes the existing foundation without any excavation or new foundation required. The addition of new windows, siding, insulation, and HVAC systems drastically improve the overall energy efficiency of the home. This incredible redesign achieved and exceeded the homeowners’ goals within a much lower budget than if they had built a new home.
AIA Framework for Design Excellence: Design for Integration, Ecosystems, Economy, Energy, Resources & Discovery
Design for Integration is demonstrated through transforming the prior floor plan to create a home that responds to the way the owners want to live while also transforming the style of their home to reflect their personal tastes. Design for Ecosystems was achieved by leaving trees and other greenery intact; the land surrounding the house remained undisturbed during construction. Design for Economy is demonstrated by repurposing the exiting spaces and only adding the additional space as needed without increasing the existing foundation size.
Design for Energy was achieved by adding new windows, siding, insulation, and HVAC systems, drastically improving the overall energy efficiency of the home. Design for Resources was embodied through avoiding a costly demolition that would require every bit of material used in the original home's construction to go into a landfill.
Design for Discovery was evident in the high level of collaboration throughout the project. The architect explored many alternate design approaches that were priced out by the contractor to find the most economical approach that achieved the owner’s design goals. Then, after completing the majority of the construction work on the exterior, structural, and mechanical systems, the contractor handed off the construction to the owner who did much of the finish work on the project themselves to help meet their budget goals.
What is the AIA Framework for Design Excellence? Learn more »