The Urban Terrace

The urban terrace seeks to address attainable middle class housing, appropriate solutions for urban infill and meaningful architect led construction innovation through prefabrication.  This 2,600sf 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home represents a smart solution for urban living.  The clean lines and modern volumes exercise restraint while lap siding allows the home to blend into neighborhood fabric.  Unlike most homes built in this area, the plan preserves greenspace in both the front and backyard, extending the living space through a large sliding glass door and patio.  The open plan is achieved by an exposed steel beam allowing spaces to flow together yet have individual presence.  Through the off-site construction process, waste was eliminated and site disruption minimized.  Additional sustainable features include low flow plumbing, low VOC paint, Energy Star appliances, high performance spray foam insulation, and thermally broken aluminum windows with low-e insulated glazing.  

 

Landscaping includes permeable surfaces, drought tolerant plants and a solar ready roof terrace.  Built as both a custom home and prototype at the same time, this project serves to address critical issues in housing today through architect led solutions.