First draft

There was a “wow” factor. On the table was a 3-D model of what our house could be, nestled into our hillside property, showing proper elevations.

A curved roof unifies the current mess of rooflines over the bedrooms. Two towers serve as passive solar collectors. There is a roof garden, a deck on the main level and “hanging out” steps in the back.

The drawings were compelling, too. The opportunity to experience what could be was topped off with a “tour” through a computer rendering so we could check out their ideas from several angles—including a fish eye-view up through the lake.

While we knew we didn’t agree with all the concepts, it was difficult to have any perspective until we left Anthony and Jimmy’s office. I had to resist yelling “awesome! Where do I sign?” My husband agrees the meeting was productive; what they showed us exceeded his expectations, particularly in the many ways they were able to present their ideas, from low-tech to high.

That weekend, we analyzed the plans with the help of our teenage nephew. We looked at them inside, carried them outside and walked around pondering and pointing. Later we put together a three-page memo to sum up our responses. Upon reflection, our comments were in line with the dream house “Manifesto.” It was critical the project make it easier to get from the car to the house. Also important was to quell the urge to fix what wasn’t broken, namely, the guest bedroom and the bathroom.

Bottom line: this was a better first draft than I dared hope. Now let’s see how the architects respond to feedback.