normandy park backyard cottage

This detached accessory dwelling unit was designed for a couple who wanted to age in place on their property with family members living nearby in the main house. Vaulted ceilings, large windows, and an open layout give the 1000 square foot home a spacious feeling. Wide doors, flush thresholds, grab bars and levered handles eliminate barriers for people of all ages and abilities.

The home is designed and built to be energy efficient, resource conscious, comfortable, and beautiful. The building envelope is well-insulated and air-tight with continuous exterior insulation, triple-pane fiberglass windows, and attention to air sealing details. Continuous fresh, filtered air is provided by a Zehnder heat recovery ventilation system. Mini-split heat pumps provide room conditioning as well as water heating. Cork flooring, reclaimed Douglas fir, FSC eucalyptus soffits and a juniper counter bring warmth to the building. All stormwater is infiltrated on-site. This building is certified Built Green 5 Star. While not a certified Passive House, this home is built using the same techniques and components, and surpassed the air tightness standard.

Close collaboration between the design team, construction team, and owner brought this project to life.

Project team: Targa Homes, OG Engineering, KWO Engineering