The Juneau home combines the massing of traditional architecture with a more contemporary twist. The home was originally designed for a corner lot in an urban development, and one of the design intents was to maximize the living area with a minimal footprint. Clever design and efficient use of space made this possible.

The efficiency of use is evident immediately upon entering the home. Both the primary and secondary entrances use a single foyer. Just steps away, the mudroom and pantry provide storage and allow easy access to the kitchen without going through the main living area. To the left of the foyer is an away room that can be used as a library, den or media room. The open style floorplan of the kitchen, dining and living rooms, is divided only by exposed hardwood ceiling beams, and not by view obstructing internal walls. To the rear, a screen porch acts as an extension of the living area during warm weather. The symmetry of the garage shape and design, allow for it to be built either front loading or side loading, depending on lot shape and direction of approach.

An increase in the relative square footage was achieved by extending second floor living areas over non-living areas on the first floor. For example, bedroom #2 sits above the covered entry porch of the home, and bedroom #3 make use of the space above the garage. This placement preserves the lines and architectural interest of the home, without the need to increase the size of the main or basement levels. This also allows the upper level of the home to have a total of four bedrooms. The master suite fills the rear portion of the upper level, and boasts a walk-in closet and large master bath. The other three bedrooms share a full bath. Opposite the bath is the home’s second floor laundry. It has been located where over 95% of the laundry is generated, eliminating the need to carry laundry baskets up and down stairs.

Note that placement of a bedroom or any living area above a garage is not our preferred design. However, we recognize the need and advantage to building this way in many situations. The techniques for building a healthy home with designs like this are covered in our Healthy Construction Guidelines that come free with all plans we sell.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:Due to licensing agreements with the original owner and architect, the Juneau home is not to be constructed in the state of Wisconsin.