Front Porch

The Challenge:

This is a home across from the Boise Co-op, deep in the historic North End District. The challenge was to create a separate entrance from the triplex, and provide an entry/mudroom to buffer the noise and headlights from the market that were shining into the home. Any alteration of the front facade of a home in this district requires permission from the Historic Commission, and must meet strict specific national historic guidelines.

The Idea:

Demolish the 1970′s porch and enclose it, relocating the front door to improve security. We wanted to create a functional space that compliments the historic home while creating a noise and light buffer. The key was to  still allow natural light to enter the home.

The Solution:

We came up with a great design after locating an old images of the home in the 1950′s. We then produced renderings. Our case was an uphill battle and we had to argue the merits of the plan multiple times before the commission and city council. We were able to create a convincing enough argument to be allowed to complete the project.

The Details:

Custom arched Anderson window. Hardwood floors, marble tile inlay, re-purposed front door, harmonizing stucco, arched entry and portico

Investment Range: $34,000

Time Frame: 9 weeks

The Challenge:

New Sun room

This is a home in an area near HP. They had a covered back porch that was sinking and wanted to enclose it .

The Idea:

Tear out the floor and install footings and stem walls. Reinstall floor joists and connect to the existing HVAC system.

The Solution:

We added two foundation walls and hacked the overhung roof back into position. We provide and install new windows and relocate the existing back door.

The Details:

Dow dura-ceramic floor without grout lines, operable windows. bead board. Colorful paint palate.

Investment Range: $12,000

Time Frame: 3 weeks

The Challenge:

New Addition

This is a home in a fairly new subdivision with CCNR rules. In addition to a building permit we needed approval from the home owners association.The addition is at the rear of the home and created a 20 x 20 or 400 sf addition. There is only access from the front of the home along the side.

The Idea:

To build an addition that is the same height as the home and uses extensions of the HVAC system.

The Solution:

We added a the space and included a vaulted ceiling. During the project we noticed that the window we had specked was too small. We were able to enlarge the window at no additional expense to the owner.

The Details:

Pergo brand flooring, operable windows,vaulted ceiling, and french doors.

Investment Range: $21,000

Time Frame: 4 weeks

Stairway to the basement

The Challenge:

This is a contributing historic home in the North End that was relocated to the current site. Because of the historic nature of this home, we could not change the look from the street. The owners wanted to add a master bedroom suite and a guest bathroom.

The Idea:

To build an addition that included a functional basement off the rear of the house.

The Solution:

We added a full multi-purpose basement with 9 foot ceilings with multiple egress windows. On the first floor, we built a new master bedroom suite as well as the new guest bathroom. We complemented the transition from the original house to the new addition with a large arched doorway.

The Details:

Sunken shower, arched doorway, skylight, vessel sink, custom made Bakote wood counter top.

Investment Range: $160,000

Time Frame: 8 weeks