Land Steward Home
Project Type: Custom Residential (Concept)Location: Dayton, OhioProject Size: 1,170 sq.ft.Land steward can be a full-time job where one is paid to live on a piece of land and care for it. It certainly sounds simpler than it is. Caring for land as a steward could mean long-term projects of clearing the land, observing and keeping track of natural habitat and much more. Also, this job is often occupied by people without children or partners, thus requiring one's full devotion to living on the land and living off of the land. The client for this home had several key criteria in mind when requesting a design. First one being building on a hill to capture the view. Secondly, the client request the usage of natural materials such as wood. Thirdly, it was paramount for the client to have a sense of security while living on the land, thus requiring the home to be well protected from vandalism or natural wildlife predators. Finally, the goal for this home was to make it a place of serenity for the resident while offering the modern amenities.
The client liked the idea of having the home elevated above ground with pillars thus allowing any flooding to happen on land without causing damage to the house. The side closest to the entrance will be surrounded with metal panels for extra security and protection and the rest of the house wrapped with wooden rain screen siding. The second story offers a walk-out balcony with plenty of space for keeping plants or hosting people on a warm Spring or Fall day. Curved metal roof adds to the aesthetic mimicry of the surrounding hills.
Large swing-out windows on the side allow for an unobstructed view of the landscape as well as natural ventilation inside. First floor outdoor deck is yet another space that invites one to enjoy the dawn drink and the sunset view. Generous extension over the hill slope makes one feel elevated around the beautiful landscape thus capturing the natural scenery. Wood, glass, metal and concrete are the materials that 85% of the home is made out of thus making the construction efficient and inexpensive.
After one climbs the front door steps a door to the left turns into a mud room since the land steward works in any weather conditions. Lower level offers a generous well lit living room area overlooking the deck, a kitchen with numerous windows and an office in the alcove by the main bathroom. The client chose to have the bedroom upstairs where it opens up to an expansive 2nd floor deck. The layout works for up to 2 people living in the home comfortably, but most importantly allowing all of clients' goals come to be.