Situated on a nine-acre parcel, this home overlooks Sturgeon Creek, a waterway directly connected to the Piscataqua River in Eliot, Maine. Lassel Architects worked closely with the homeowners to build the home to fit in with the natural landscape while working within strict river and wetland setback restrictions. The home augments views to the active creek and lush landscape. The juxtaposition of the home on the site preserves privacy by limiting the visual impact of the street on interior spaces.
A stunning great room, with open flow to the kitchen and other living spaces, provides an ideal area for entertainment and relaxation. A private dining space and audio/video room allow more private moments of respite. The master bedroom spreads out over the top floor of the home and has stunning 360-degree water views. Thick walls and an intricate insulation system maximize energy efficiency. The home remains warm and well-lit, even during intense New England winter storms.
The list of COTE (AIA Committee on the Environment) items was created to help understand how a project meets the needs of users and how it impacts the environment. The list focuses on best practices and high impact strategies for creating healthy places to live and work. Here are some ways this project measures up to the COTE list:
Integration
The site is surrrounded by blueberry fields and shorelands off Sturgeon Creek. It was important to integrate the home and utilities to limit site impacts.
Community
The house stands alone in a large field. The design limits visual impact and integrates the home into the natural slope of the land, allowing for a full open walk-out on the lower floor.
Energy
The home is super insulated using closed cell foam. Walls are 2×8 with four inches of closed cell foam, the remainder insulation blown-in fiberglass.
Wellness
Low VOC producted were used throughout the home. Natural light and many ventilation options keep air flow fresh.
Contractor — David Cooley Construction
Stats
Size 4,500 square feet
