SPRING FORWARD HOUSE

Anchorage, Alaska

Categories: Single Family, Anchorage, Addition/Remodel, Master Suite, Residential Master Plan, Urban, Alley, Rogers Park, growing family

Total area, buildings: 2,995 sq. ft. [new/remodel] + 1,250 sq. ft. [existing Garage/Studio]

Total area, site: 8,400 sq. ft.

When discussing the rationale behind this project [or any other with similar parameters] it always leads to consideration of the bigger picture in the city and region. The problem: the house, acquired earlier now seems too small – because the family occupying it is growing/maturing and/or there are other reasons to need or desire more space and function. The additional problem in Anchorage [and most other places, to greater or lesser degree] is the available housing is mostly low quality, uninspiring, aged and perceived to be overpriced. Since there's not time to get into all of the reasons for staying or going – let's just say they are voluminous, and the calculus is mind-numbingly complex. More often than not, the decision is not to stay. It's a good sign when it appears more people are deciding to stay. Views on whether or not it is wise to maintain and/or re-use existing substandard buildings are becoming more nuanced as well. If you've decided to stay, you have taken the first step and identified potential. Now the main task becomes, how is that potential revealed and exploited? A qualified Designer will have lots of ideas, and work with the owners to incubate and develop solutions.