This house sits on the Scioto River and, combined with its multi-tiered decks, had unbelievable river and nature views. The problems were several, however. In addition to the garage enjoying the best location on the lot, it was also at the end of a steeply slope driveway that made it impossible to use in the winter. In addition, there were no large rooms inside the house that would be suitable for larger-scale entertaining and family functions, and all of the interior rooms had small windows that didn’t take advantage of the lots unique setting and fantastic views.

The solution was to replace the existing attached garage with a new detached garage, and to convert the existing garage into a dramatic and open great room, complete with a wall of windows overlooking the river. One of the defining features of the home is the tower cupola, which not only breaks up the huge expanse of roof that the visitor is greeted with, but it also greatly increases the home’s natural lighting and cooling ability.

Because of the immense volume of space contained within the new greatroom, an in-floor radiant heat system was spec’d to provide far greater comfort levels and greatly reduced operating costs. Due to the presence of two wells on the property, we were able to improve efficiency even further with a geothermal system. Finally, energy efficiency was greatly enhanced by the use of SIP (Structurally Insulated Panel) construction. Wall R-values are R-30+, while ceiling R-values are R-60+, all while being extremely air and moisture tight.

Sustainable features include:
- Re-using an existing house, and transforming what had been bland and basic into dramatic and wonderful.
- Use of the centrally located tower cupola to introduce huge amounts of natural light into the home, and to greatly enhance the home’s ability to naturally cool itself.
- Use of Structurally Insulated Panels, which use far less lumber and achieve much greater R-values than typical stick-framed construction.
- Use of a geothermal system, that very efficiently transfers the natural temperature of the earth to and from the home, as the season and the occupants require.

This project is being completed by Gary Grossman Builders, Delaware, OH.