Stowe ADU & Garage
3 070 ft² building, 12. 5 acre site
As part of the scope for a single-family residence in the mountains of Vermont, we were also tasked with designing an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) that the clients could reside in while the main house was under construction, and use as a guest house once complete. With industrial metal-framed windows, pale cladding and a geometric form, the building is intended to both complement the style of the larger house, and stand out as an architectural feature in its own right.
The four-story structure will include a double garage at ground level, off the property’s forecourt, and living areas above accessed via walkway to the side and an enclosed staircase attached to the back. To comfortably house the family of three, some clever spatial moves are proposed on the level where the kitchen, lounge, dining area, bathroom and kid’s bedroom will all be located.
Seating built under the dog-legged stairs to the top level, an elevated bed to allow storage underneath, a galley kitchen, and a study area tucked into a halfway niche are among the solutions to make the space feel as large and open as possible—like an urban loft, yet surrounded by the wilds of nature. White oak lines the interior, creating a warm, comfy and cozy vibe.
On the top floor, with incredible views over the main house’s green roof and across the valley to the peaks beyond, a 565-square-foot outdoor terrace offers additional space to take in the scenery. Planned as the primary bedroom while occupied full-time by the family, this level could be used for guest quarters, yoga, or other activities thanks to its flexibility.
Team:
Andrew Curtis Partner, AIA, MRAIC, OAQ, LEED BD+C
Sophie Robitaille Partner, ASLA, CSLA, AAPQ
Anne Charbit Associate, Project Architect, OAQ
Galen Rochon Architect, OAQ