Rural House Renewal: Resolving Complexity in an 80s Retrofit
Service: Full Service Integrated Design
Construction Spec: Renovation | 2500SF | $250/SF
Engineering Focus: Envelope resolution, structural auditing, and durability prioritizing.
Design Focus: Spatial re-mapping, material unification, and exterior identity update and indoor/outdoor integration. .
The Brief
Unravel a series of uncoordinated renovations that lacked a unified architectural or technical thread. Address poor circulation, inconsistent detailing, and an aging building envelope. Establish a clear, cohesive identity while managing the unknowns common in deep renovations.
Our Approach
Engineering: Each design idea was evaluated through the lens of Value Engineering - the process of optimizing every material choice and construction technique to align with the budget without degrading the architectural vision.We provided steady guidance on scope inclusions, identifying where high-impact changes were necessary and where existing assemblies could be leveraged or improved.
Design: We approached this design with the goal of re-establishing a coherent architectural expression. From the exterior, specification of new windows, doors and cladding paved the way for a new exterior style identity. Reshaping the entryway areas and improving exterior integration reconnected this house to the surroundings; something that had been lost over decades of changes. Inside, we focused on spatial clarity; re-mapping the circulation to improve how the family moved between living spaces and creating a more intentional connection to the rural site.
The Result: Coherent Renewal.
A transformation from an "ordinary" rural house into a highly durable, intentional home. By applying a rigorous design framework and a performance-first engineering mindset, we turned a series of disconnected spaces into a cohesive architectural whole that is built for the next forty years.

