The goal of this project was to create an outdoor oasis on a challenging hilltop property. This required creatively working around difficult site conditions in order to clear space, install required support structures and build a multi-level deck for outdoor relaxation and entertaining.
With the house built on a hilltop with a significant slope, there were a number of complications that needed to be worked through in successfully completing construction. The owner wanted to keep as many trees as possible, maintaining the existing feeling of space and serenity.
Successful completion required coordinating and managing a number of logistics. There were a number of engineering and geotechnical issues to address in managing the slope and preventing erosion. Footings needed to be dug as much as 10 feet deep to compensate for the gradient of the hill. Trees that needed to be removed were carefully brought down, and a trail was dug to enable an excavator to access the site. Temporary shorings were also constructed to provide support and space while the footings were dug. Because of site limitations, concrete was mixed on the far side of the house, wheelbarrowed through the basement, and hand poured into sonotubes to create the footings.
As much care as went into site preparation also went into construction. The decks were framed on each level, with a staircase connecting the upper level with the more spacious lower walk-out balcony. Railings were hand-build with inset iron balusters. Timber and glass railings maximize a feeling of openness, providing optimal views and connecting with the trees and countryside. The deck boards were carefully scribed in order to seamlessly tie into the stone face of the house.
The result is a truly unique exterior space that affords a feeling of privacy and intimacy while maximizing enjoyment of the surrounding outdoors.
You can read more details of the renovation of the primary residence here.