Lance ---
Several of the design elements are "forced" by code.
#1 - Motor Court... this is a must and had to be enlarged because the fire department bought a new 'rig' right after the big fires here this summer! We had to re-submit plans enlarging this and the driveway so that their new truck can make a 3 point turn. Not kidding here. We don't have enough friends to fill this area up unless Charley brought every car he owns.
#2 - The house - as posted up here - has changed quite a lot in room sizes and arrangement. The "living areas" -- which to me are exactly as you described -- the kitchen - family room - area got BIGGER.... Because when we tried to actually arrange furniture there --- we discovered they became "tight".
#3 - The shop area has been changed significantly. Once actual models of the semi -- and my other stuff were made - things had to change... I'm really happy with the final design but this area required the most work!
#4 - It was critical, in our view, that "company" (children etc) be as far away as possible from the main living areas. Not because we don't like them - but because people "on vacation" tend to drink more than normal -- being louder -- and kids tend to be worn out and need their nighty nite time.
#5 - I agree with you that the extended roofline out over the outdoor fireplace will be a "highlight" of the house. It will have the fireplace as well as be heated by outdoor space heaters. I don't have good enough pics on file to show the views from there -- but this will be a focal point for hanging out.
#6 - The kitchen has some of those areas showing "stuff" were just placeholders so we could get the rooms and room placement right. The stove - for instance - won't be where it is etc. Those changes are all in the new plans that I don't have PDF files for yet. Should have them this week
#7 - I have a call in to Charley to see about the mortgage. So far I haven't received a call back.
Quote:
Originally Posted by SSLance
"Motor Court" Everyone needs a house with a designated Motor Court! I love it.
While I like the plans of the shop, and I'm sure it'll be even nicer in it's final rendition, I'm also digging the kitchen with the eat in area that leads out to the covered porch...with a fireplace. I imagine that area there will get used more than any other part of the house as a gathering area. At least with us it would anyway.
When we remodeled our "kitchen area" we built in a raised "L" shaped bar that seats 8 right off of the kitchen with views out the back of the house right next to our dining room which doubles as our TV room. This is where we congregate and any time we have company over, it's where everyone hangs out enjoying food, adult beverages of choice, and each other in a comfortable setting. If there was a bedroom right off of this area, pretty sure we'd never even go anywhere else in the whole house.
Only think I'm missing is the covered porch and I'm still trying to figure out a way to make that happen. We'd like to be able to sit outside and enjoy the view...while having a roof over our head at the same time. Added plus is a fireplace going to keep the area warm. Real fireplace or gas (propane)?
It all looks very nice Greg. It shows that you've put a lot of thought into the planning which is crucial.
Side note here, not sure I know or want to know what a deciduous shrub is...but it appears that you want a lot of them around though.  |
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