Porch House
Category: Architecture
Posted by: Anthony on 8/19/2004 12:55:00 AM | Digg | Stumble It! | del.icio.us
The home that leads a double life.
Greg La Vardera is an architect who designs stock plans for modern homes. Stock plans have a bad rap as being uninspiring and - gasp! - occasionally designed by someone void of proper architecture credentials. However, with a solid understanding of modern design and its application in residential architecture, he has put together several plans that definitely take the bland and boring out of stock plans.

Recently, Greg completed the plans for his latest project, the Porch House.

"The Porch House leads a double life. During the winter it is a cozy two bedroom cabin. During the summer it is a weekend retreat able to accommodate many friends and guests. The entire ground floor of the cabin is designed as one big screened in porch, with sleeping areas and a summer kitchen which allows you to move your life outside for the summer months, hence the name Porch House. So despite the size of the house, during the summer months the number of people that can be accommodated can be quite large. These summer living spaces are made to drink in the scenery and make life at this retreat as different as possible from your daily life back home. Think of it as a machine for unwinding!"
We're not sure what Greg has in store for the future, but we'd like to see some of his designs come with a "prefab" option, boxed up and ready for delivery. Nice work, Greg!

Architect: Greg La Vardera
Link: Porch House
Related: Deck House (MocoLoco)


Comments Add Comments

Sears homes
Posted by Ron T Brown on 10/1/2004 9:15:00 PM

The idea of a "kit" is really intriguing, like the Sears Packaged Homes of the 20's & 30's. Perhaps with local sources to lower the cost of freight. I am really taken with this particular plan.
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Structural Integrity
Posted by Michele Allison on 10/14/2004 6:19:00 AM

Would the construction stand up to heavy winds and ice. Living the NC we sometimes experience extremes in weather. Also, does the foundation have to be slab?
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structural question
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 10/14/2004 9:55:00 AM

The overhang structure is deceptively strong. See built prototype on our office here: http://www.lamidesign.com/images/workimages/9977/9977_01.JPG

This has been in place for 5 years through winters, wind storms, and all kinds of weather. It has not budged. Never the less if you are in a coastal area the structure should be reviewed.

Regarding the foundation, this particular design indicates a pier foundation with a deck and porch over it.
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plans
Posted by Tom Chang on 11/2/2004 8:15:00 AM

Are your plans in conformance with building codes in Seattle, Washington? If so, has anyone built one of your plans here in WA?

Thank you!

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plans in WA
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 11/7/2004 10:59:00 AM

I am was working to the CABO residential code, and now to the International Residential Code - following the adopted codes in my region. Without going off to check the WA state web site I can't say off the top of my head which model code is adopted in WA, but I suspect it is the IRC or the UBC. The codes are very similar and I suspect my designs will be fine, but as always you should confirm issues of snow loading, wind, and seismic loading as they pertain to your local or the particulars of your site. This is the case with any catalog house plan.
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Can I build a house like these in East Texas?
Posted by Shirely Ross on 11/25/2004 6:37:00 PM

I really like these house plans. I'm buying some land next spring and I want to know if I can buy a set of these house plans. I don't know if I can get a building permit for plans like these but I love them. They fit my family's personalities to a tee.
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plans in TX
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 11/29/2004 12:05:00 PM

Shirely, I think you can get a permit with my plans in Texas, but its always best to speak to your local building department and see if they have any issues with catalog plans. Other than that its just a matter of being diligent about your project. If you are in a coastal area you will want to have the plans checked locally for criteria related to wind forces, if the soils are know to have poor bearing capacity where you build you need to have the foundation design checked. Related to that - some of my designs are documented with basements. I understand that basements are rare in Texas so you may want a slab or a crawl space instead.
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I love your cube house
Posted by Mike Rovensky on 1/11/2005 6:26:00 PM

Im jealous of those little cartoon people. :(
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cartoon people have the life!
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 1/17/2005 7:28:00 AM

I just finished the construction drawings for the 0380 Cube House, so its ready to go.
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Refreshing Designs, Most Impressive
Posted by Wes on 2/2/2005 9:53:00 PM

I've haven't seen many others try to bridge the gap between the worlds of high design and real-life building needs; my compliments. The inclusion of an Airstream trailer in the Cube House sketches proves you have a keen sense of style combined with an appreciation of actual humans. Bravo.
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much thanks
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 2/3/2005 8:24:00 PM

and Wes, you are a keen observer. I wish I had more time to prop out the models thoughtfully, but I try to have fun with it when I do it.
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Nice but I would like more space.
Posted by Robert Crockett on 2/24/2005 12:00:00 PM

Like that someone has truly modern design with stock plans. I am looking for one level or at least bedrooms on the groud floor.

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more designs on the way
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 2/25/2005 10:32:00 AM

Robert - look at all the plans on the web site. There are several that are under development with ground level bedrooms. If you would like more info on any of them you an email me and I'll fill you in.
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yeah! it's Greg!
Posted by bjb on 4/4/2005 5:02:00 PM

so glad you paid tribute to Greg here. he's great. my husband has talked to him, and he's super nice and informative. I highly recommend if any of you readers are contemplating. we'd use him if he was in the NW.

love some of the newly finished designs, Greg. they're really nice. you actually include laundry rooms. I know that seems silly, but so many modern floor plans leave them out or assume you just need a closet for a mini-stack. I'm so excited about the Tray house!
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thanks for the praise
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 4/11/2005 7:34:00 AM

Sometimes I feel like I'm not making enough accomodation for things like laundry and other real-life issues. In my life we are busy - laundry stacks up. I don't know how you can live with a laundry closet in the hall. I know some people are super organized - more power to you if you are.
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Look-a-like
Posted by Nancy Andrews on 4/26/2005 12:42:00 PM

Your home plans (long thin ones)resemble the Dwell house, that costs about $300,000.00 to build, according to the web site. They stole your idea of the storage area along one side of the house. Why do these trailer home look-a-likes cost so much. Open floor plans mean less walls, which should mean less money to build. Square should mean less money to build. Have I got it wrong, or is the more simple the house plan, the more expensive the plan. I do not mean to be ugly, I am just on a budget.
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on a closer look
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 4/28/2005 8:54:00 AM

My house plans may share a modern spirit with the Dwell House but a closer examination shows they are quite different. They are working to dimensions common in the modular housing industry because they are built off site - 15-16ft wide at the most. My designs that are long and thin, the 0242 Plat House and the 0357 Steel Case House are both 18ft wide - impossible for modular construction. That extra 2ft creates a world of possibilities for how you can organize a plan.

The cost is another issue. They are making a very nice house, with nice materials and products incorporated. The modular home industry for the most part is building with vinyl siding, asphalt shingles, wall to wall carpet and vinyl windows. A modern modular won't match the prices in the modular home industry unless it adopts the same palette of materials. Those cheap modular houses are just as spare as a minimalist modern house. If you want to make a comparison to an ornate traditional house then you will see a cost advantage on the basis of simplicity, but that kind of traditional house will not be inexpensive. And neither will a modern house of nice materials. This is really such a big issue, to big to discuss here. If you want to read more about it look at www.livemodern.com and www.fabprefab.com It has been discussed before.

And btw they did not steal the idea of a storage wall from me, nor can I take credit for inventing this! Its something that you see in many architect designed houses.
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forgot to mention
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 4/28/2005 8:57:00 AM

Nancy, my stock plans are designed to empower you to taylor your materials and finishes to your budget and taste. These house can be built with very nice and expensive materials, or the usual chum that you can get at any home depot.
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More Plans Coming
Posted by JW on 5/1/2005 1:20:00 PM

The same plans have been posted for some time, when can we see more? Why is the 60/40 plan hard to reach from your site? Is it because it's prefab?
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Busy with 6040 & not linked yet..
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 5/1/2005 6:56:00 PM

Yes, you hit the nail on the head. I've been busy with the launch of the 6040 House projects and I've been letting the new stock plans coast in the meantime. I've put some time into developing some variations on the 0357 Steel Case House that use different materials, and I will post them when its all complete. I've also been sketching a new design for a narrow lot house that is 24ft wide. And the Pump House is on the boards, just not moving very fast. I've also committed to developing a viable ISO shipping container based house and I hope to put time into that this summer.

I need to link my site to the 6040 House site, yes, I've just been too busy to do it. In the long run I am not sure how to integrate the prefab house products into my stock plan site, since they ultimately have their own web site. I'm open to suggestions. Let me know what works for you.
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And I call myself a modernist . . .
Posted by Sue Anne Lau on 5/6/2005 1:29:00 PM

Greg, I can't believe you have the time to accomplish so much and still respond so graciously and intelligently to so many comments--I've been lurking on livemodern for half a year now, keeping quiet, and I don't know how you do it all. But to my point--I dream of building a modern house in a several years (for me, my husband, and now 18 mnth old daughter)and find your stock plans interesting, as well as the 6040 house (particularly that smaller version you may be developing in the future). I have one issue with the usual modern "living space," however--the exposed and visible kitchen. An elevated seating bar doesn't do enough to hide the flotsam and jetsam of cooking. How about a screen/bookshelf, designed by the architect to fit into and enhance the flow of the living/kitchen area? You understand the challenges of the laundry room--thought you might have some good ideas for mitigating the kitchen chaos factor.

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modernists have messy kitchens too
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 5/12/2005 8:40:00 PM

Sue, thank you for your very kind comments. I understand your concern about the open kitchen. We have busy lives and our kitchen stacks up with the usual daily debris, which in our house we can leave behind a closed door. There is something to be said for that. My first plan was the Pretender 4 which has a discrete kitchen, but I felt pressure to incorporate open kitchen space into the following designs as this is what I see everywhere, including houses of the McMansion variety. If you come to the point of ordering a plan I can modify this aspect to you liking.
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Very Excited about new housing options!
Posted by Laura Smith on 6/10/2005 7:24:00 PM

my husband and i have been researching modular options for our lakeside property in south georgia. i admit that i am overwhelmed by all that is out there- but i am truly enamored by your porch house. because of our semi tropic climate- the CHRC in Atlanta suggested that houses constructed of SIP's for the exterior walls, concrete floors and stairs, and polycarbonate panels for windows in order to minimize construction costs and maximize longevity of the structure. Could these elements be used to build the porch house? Also, could portions of the downstairs be easily enclosed with glass so that HVAC could be used down there?

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Your designs - Porch House
Posted by Mariah Nasir on 6/11/2005 6:23:00 AM

I live in Northern Australia, a high cyclone risk area but I am interested in this plan on my rural block. How can I view this plan, and others, in more detail and can you comment on suitability for our cyclone area (for strength and wind factor etc).
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thanks for your interest
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 6/13/2005 10:12:00 AM

Laura, the construction elements you mention can be used in these houses. SIPs, concrete slab floors, poly carb panels are all things you can use to complete the houses. The lower level of the Porch House could be made into conditioned space if that is the way you see yourself using it. All glass would be a challenge for any cooling system, but exterior roll up shutters could allow you to control the sun before the heat entered the house. Also cellular poly carb panels like PolyGal allow light with better insulation values than glass. It also creates an obscuring panel rather than a completely transparent window wall. Things to consider.

Mariah - You would need to have the design reviewed by a local architect and structural engineer. All of the construction products indicated are US standards and you will need to determine the proper AU stand-ins. An engineer will need to determine what reinforcements need to be made for your local wind conditions.
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SHIPPING CONTAINER HOME?
Posted by jERRY BLOUNT on 7/3/2005 8:37:00 PM

Hi
I am looking for a set of plans to convert shipping containers into homes? Any suggestions?
Jerry

Jerry@eldorable.kscoxmail.com

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Not containers, but IBUs
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 7/13/2005 8:50:00 PM

I am working on designs for container based housing right now, but these will not be sold as plan sets, but as actual modified containers.

Read my outlook on the state of the use of containers for housing here:

http://www.livemodern.com/Members/lavardera/lamidesigndevblog/HGM-IBUintro
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???
Posted by james black on 7/14/2005 6:48:00 PM

how much will you sell the plans with the enginering to stack two 40 foot contaners on top of each other, in oregon,,

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???
Posted by james black on 7/14/2005 6:52:00 PM

my email address is dillforce@hotmail.com if there is any one with some info,, i need some plans to take down to the county to get to work,,

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no container plans, only the modified modules
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 7/19/2005 3:55:00 PM

I'm sorry - as I said above we won't be selling plans for IBU based houses. We will be selling the actual modules and documentation required for permitting will be included.
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narrow lot plans
Posted by alex on 7/27/2005 7:20:00 PM

Do you currently have any narrow-lot (house needs to be 15ft wide)plans available?
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no narrow lot plans
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 8/4/2005 7:10:00 PM

Sorry Alex - I don't have any narrow lot designs complete. Have you looked at the narrow lot house design competition they held in Portland? There are dozens of great ideas there and willing architects to go along with them. This competition sort of flooded the market for narrow lot designs, so I've been standing off them.
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Earthqauke country
Posted by Patricia jacobs on 8/25/2005 4:43:00 PM

I am wondering how your design would work in southern california where earthquakes are common. I agree with others that a 2 story plan should ahve a bedroom downstairs. Some of us are getting older but still love modern...

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no problem
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 8/25/2005 8:14:00 PM

Patricia, If you are buying plans in California you should have them reviewed by a local engineer for seismic issues - this is a sensible thing to do with any catalog house plan. The houses will be fine in California but I am sure that an engineer will provide details for some specific measures: foundation reinforcement, connections of the framed walls to the foundation, and he will probably identify and provide details for several shear walls among the partitions.

If you like one of the houses but wish it had a ground level bedroom we can make a modified version for you. Contact us with the specifics.
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Need Design help
Posted by Shrijit Bhowmik on 10/21/2005 12:16:00 AM

I am intrested in building single or double stories living 1/2 BR houses in India for the local market, please tell me what designs you have and what does it cost to have the design layout.
shrijitb_2001@yahoo.com
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all info is on our site
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 10/27/2005 3:42:00 PM

Shrijit, all the info you need to know is on our web site www.lamidesign.com/plans In short a set of construction prints is 1500$us and you can purchase online using paypal. Shipping to India will be additional so you should contact me with an address so I can determine the shipping amount. Remember you will have to be responsible for adapting these designs to local building practices.
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The Pretender 3
Posted by Steve on 10/30/2005 4:45:00 PM

Looking at the plans on your website. Very interested in the concept behind your Stealth designs. The picture for The Pretender 3 plan looks very close to what I have in mind for a design. Any word on when that (or something similar) will be available.
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Pretender 3
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 11/6/2005 5:02:00 PM

I have no set schedule for releasing designs - I develop them as time allows. The only thing that can speed that up, I am afraid, is money! Email me directly and I can point you towards more info on the Pretender 3. plans~at~lamidesign.com I'm sure you can figure out how to make a working address out of that.
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shippingcontainer modules
Posted by roncrews on 11/14/2005 10:38:00 AM

I would be interested in more info and pricing when this is available. Any idea on a timeframe?? Georgia area
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could you clarify
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 11/14/2005 6:51:00 PM

what you are referring to? The Stock Plans are available now, however I can not tell you the cost as you have to determine that with you local builder. If you are talking about homes built with shipping containers, at this point everything is in a design stage. If you want to discuss them in more depth then email me plans~at~lamidesign.com it does not make sense to have a dialog in this comment space.
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Details, Details, Details
Posted by David Cheney on 12/7/2005 9:06:00 AM

Greg, I'm an architect and have thought about the idea of a shipping container addition on my 1930's bungalow for almost a year, but I'm having some difficulty finding how the boxes are detailed. i realize this is proprietary information, but how are issues like roof insulation/drainage and other systems handled. drc@coredc.com
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contact me
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 12/7/2005 7:37:00 PM

David - contact me and I tell you more about what we are doing. Email me via my site and I'll send you a phone number.
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any real photos?
Posted by anne on 12/13/2005 8:20:00 PM

Do you have any photographs of any of these houses? All I have seen are drawings. I would like to see a photograph of one that was built. Thank You for any info.
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see real photos on the web site
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 12/17/2005 3:45:00 PM

Yes, there are real photos on the web site. Two customers have been so kind as to share their experiences and sent back photos of their construction process. We have posted them on our site. See these two pages:

http://www.lamidesign.com/plans/planscat/0242/0242pg_1.html

http://www.lamidesign.com/plans/planscat/0385/0385pg_1.html
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The Pretender
Posted by Ryan Thompson on 2/4/2006 8:34:00 AM

Have you completed a smaller design of the Pretender? My wife and I are very interested in this design but I think we are looking for something in the 2000 sf range. We live in Ohio and would require a basement as well. Right now we are hunting for a build lot. We love the stealth design as most homes in our area are what I consider traditional / boring.
Thanks
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One Floor
Posted by Cherie on 2/11/2006 5:06:00 PM

Sure would like to see one-story plans.
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new plans developing, slowly
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 2/12/2006 9:10:00 AM

Ryan - I think you emailed me and I responded. I'm making slow progress on new designs as I've been busy. But in the works are the Pump House and the U House - both one story designs Cherie.
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Shipping Container Homes
Posted by ShipConner on 3/4/2006 2:36:00 PM

I too am about to pull the trigger on a shipping container home. I have one acre just outside of Hilo Hawaii. My goal is to have it built by the end of 2006.

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Contact L+L
Posted by James on 3/4/2006 5:06:00 PM

Dear "ShipConner",
Contact us via the "contact" link in the menu, or post more info on Soapbox. I can not find a way to contact you through your website, and the Hilo link does not work.
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exelent!! I dont speak english...Chilian
Posted by Arq+F:R: on 4/13/2006 12:05:00 PM

My girlfiend is working in the house conteiner, and she need referent the this house.
academi work architecture.
pleas. help my

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Cube House
Posted by Markus on 5/3/2006 11:37:00 AM

Greg, is there a finished Cube House in the PA, DE, NJ area that people can actually look at?
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no local cube house yet
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 5/13/2006 6:53:00 PM

Not yet Markus. IF you have specific questions then shoot me an email and I'll try to help.
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40 foot containers
Posted by Tracey Finn on 5/16/2006 2:04:00 AM

I currently own a 40 foot container and would like to convert it if possible into a 2bed living space. Any design ideas
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Modifications
Posted by Steph Jordan on 5/23/2006 8:41:00 PM

What would it take to modify the home for year-round living? Perhaps a pull-down weather-resistant covering for the downstairs? And one wall glassed-in (to view the snow but not experience it!)? Vermont-area, between Montpelier and Plainville. I LOVE this design!!!

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easy mod
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 5/24/2006 7:37:00 AM

Many have inquired about making the ground floor into conditioned space. It is an easy modification. You need to decide how you want to use the space so I can design appropriate windows. The big change really is the foundation which now must go from piers to a perimeter wall.

Email me or call if you want to explore this more.
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Easy Mod Sounds Good To Me!
Posted by Steph Jordan on 6/12/2006 4:57:00 PM

Thank you for your reply! Whatever works to retain the open feel of the ground floor but heat and cool it for year-round living. Eco-Contempo's website estimated $135/SF; how would the modifications affect that? Or do I not bother the Artist with such things? :-) Thank you, StephJ.
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porch house mod
Posted by lavardera on 6/13/2006 7:18:00 PM

That number from EcoContemp is a rough estimate for their package plus the owner's foundation and interior finish. The Porch House is hard to compare to that because you have to count the porch level at some cost lower than the conditioned level. But if you want to close in the porch level just budget for the 135 x both floors.
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desert sun and earthquakes ?
Posted by Pascal Biarrotte on 7/17/2006 10:37:00 PM


Looking at the Porch House and living in Southern California were large windows are a concern raises two questions in regards of the huge glass panels of the ground floor.

- How would they stand to a major earthquake ?

- As Sun here is an issue most of the year and large glass tend to induce uncoolable sauna effect, what can be done to reduce their surface on two or three sides of the building yet keeping the global design attractive ?



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sun and quakes
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 7/18/2006 10:43:00 AM

Hi Pascal, The first thing you should know is that the ground level of the Porch House is not enclosed with glass, it is enclosed with screens - a screened porch, hence the name. I realize that you don't have bugs in southern California, and the architectural form of this house is really driven by an east coast mentality - mosquitos have been brutal here for the past 10 years or so. But granted that, many people from California have inquired about the house, and closing in the ground floor to different degrees with glass. You do need to think about sun shading, and stopping the sun outside the house is much better than with blinds inside the house. My favorite solution is roll down shutters that allow you to shade and have ventilation at the same time. There are also exterior blinds made, quite popular in Australia, this kind of product has not really made headway here yet.

As far as the structure if you look a the floor plans on my web site you will quickly understand the bracing scheme. The central stair and plumbing chase wall provide shear walls on the two major axis. Also not present in the illustrations, but detailed in the construction documents are steel rod X bracing in each corner of the ground floor on both axis. The ground floor is well braced lateral forces.
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Dwell house plan in Greece
Posted by Massina Arvanitis on 7/21/2006 2:05:00 PM

Would any of your plans be suitable for a home in Parnassos, Greece (fir forested area). I know that we should consider, hot and cold temperatures as well as earthquakes. We would want an energy efficient home. Alot of stone and concrete is generally used.Would appreciate any comment. Thanks
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Dwell house plan in Greece
Posted by Massina Arvanitis on 7/21/2006 2:06:00 PM

Would any of your plans be suitable for a home in Parnassos, Greece (fir forested area). I know that we should consider, hot and cold temperatures as well as earthquakes. We would want an energy efficient home. Alot of stone and concrete is generally used.Would appreciate any comment. Thanks
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Lami house plan in Greece
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 7/26/2006 1:24:00 PM

My experience has been that houses in Greece are built with concrete and masonry. My construction documentation follows practices common in North America. Never the less, if you like one of the designs you could work with your builder to adapt to local techniques. I'd be willing to provide consult if you wanted advice on the transition.
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Canada
Posted by Andrea on 8/3/2006 10:32:00 AM

Hello! I am in love with your designs! Beautiful. We are considering a modular modern home to build in the next few years. We live in a pretty cold area of Canada (Alberta) where the winters can be fairly long and cold. Have any of your houses been built here? I am particularly fond of the Cube house. Thanks!
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thank you!
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 8/4/2006 12:42:00 PM

I'm glad you like the houses. There is a customer on PEI who got plans and is building one of the houses. They worked with a local architect to confirm the framing sizes were adequate for the local conditions and I'd advise you to do the same.
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Desert Dwelling?
Posted by Marsha on 8/5/2006 3:02:00 PM

Hello!
I love your ideas and designs! I read your comments above regarding sun...we live in Arizona with very hot weater for 2-3 months per year. Has anyone tried this in AZ or other hot climates?
Thanks!
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hot climates
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 8/7/2006 10:10:00 AM

Marsha,
There is a customer building a 0242 Plat House in Texas, but I have not seen any progress photos from that to know what they did to deal with the sun. Another in Colorado which again I have no feedback from. Nobody in AZ or other desert areas yet.
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i need plans
Posted by TRacy Rogers on 8/23/2006 7:36:00 PM

can you direct me to plans for container houmes
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no plans for IBUs
Posted by lavardera on 8/24/2006 3:15:00 PM

Sorry, but I am not selling plans for container based homes. My involvement with containers is a design/fabricate role. The modifications of the container shells is engineered by TAW, the vendor who fabricated them modified boxes. I could design and sell a set of plans but they would not contain the technical info required to properly modify the boxes, nor document the system for skeptical building officials, and there would not be much value in that.

However you can scan my blog for sketches of design ideas if you are looking for inspiration for your own project:

http://members.livemodern.com/Members/lavardera/lamidesigndevblog

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Customization
Posted by JP Saleeby, MD on 9/3/2006 1:11:00 PM

Like the Porch house, but what about minor alterations? Do you provide service to make subtle changes (such as enclosing the porch) so they appear in the building plans?

JP Saleeby, MD
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yes to plan mods
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 9/10/2006 7:37:00 PM

Yes, plan mods are possible. Contact us with details of the your request.
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conex house
Posted by Laurens Springs on 9/12/2006 12:37:00 PM

I have worked industrial construction over 20 years.
I have thought about and have done sketches for many years on building a house from conexes ( shipping containors).
Five years ago I was in Santa Cruz, Bolivia in a nice downtown area. My wife and I entered a game room that had the entrance of a conex and I thought it was strange and ugly, however when you went in you can notice that it is completely made of conexes and it had a vaulted ceiling. That gave me ideas for different sketches. I hope in the next few years to build my simple yet large conex house.
I am not an architect but I am an iron worker.
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container homes
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 9/12/2006 9:44:00 PM

You should visit FabPreFab.com because on the messageboard there are many people who are working on container based houses themselves.
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porch house
Posted by roz lord on 9/26/2006 11:38:00 AM

Ive been looking through house plans for some inspiration. Then I found yours. Its not quite what I want yet I am inspired to find a design that provides modern living, is stylish and of practical design. I live in the uk and have a chalet bungalow which I wish to make bigger. I hope to build up and on top creating extra space, a pleasing modern design and incorporating self sufficient energy systems and lifestle enhancement. Ive nearly got what i want in my design - I think. I like modern,edwardian,mediteranian styles ( right mix up I know) - yet I dont want to waste space with roof lofts etc. I want to be able to enjoy every inch of space. Thats why I liked your designs - designed for living - to enjoy a better lifestyle. Your design is refreshing to find- as so many designs are whacky and impractical or repetative and dont take into consideration changeing lifestyle and concerns. Im not an architect - just a promo "girl" - my partner is in the building trade - though he can do the work, he has absolutely no taste for design!
Id just like to congratulate you on you design and will look now at your other linked websites with interest. ROZ
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thanks
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 9/26/2006 9:44:00 PM

Thanks for your feedback Roz. I'm glad you like the designs and I hope they lend you some inspiration.

I hope you can come up with what you want. When your goal is to incorporate an existing structure its not usually possible to use a catalog house plan. You usually need a custom design in that case.
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Container House Conversion
Posted by Suzanne on 10/17/2006 11:34:00 AM

I love this blog site! It's so exciting to see how you can really think outside of the box (pun intended). If I decided to use containers in an extension to my house in Jamaica what would be the feasibility of using a mostly buried one as a basement? Could it be made waterproof enough? The clay soil is worrying, so I though I'd get some opinions. Thanks! Suzanne
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please don't!
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 10/17/2006 9:10:00 PM

Well... my opinion is underground containers are a bad idea. Read this: http://www.undergroundcontainer.com/
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Florida Building Code compliant
Posted by Ken Goldberg CGC on 10/24/2006 10:18:00 AM

This stuff is amazing and cool. I want to build these for clients here in Central Florida inland at 120mph non-windbourne debris zone. Are these structures compliant with Florida building code for this wind load zone and are they Energy Star certified?
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Plans are generalized
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 10/24/2006 9:59:00 PM

Ken,
The plans are localized for my region, mid-atlantic, 90mph design load, but not detailed for the severe wind exposure you describe. Like any set of house plans you have to review them with a local engineer and make modifications to suit your locale. If you are not required to have window protection for flying debris then it just needs to be reviewed for typical for wind considerations.

As far as energy star certification, no the plans are not certified. Only the actual house can be certified. I'm afraid energy star cert was not my goal when designing these. But that does not mean that you can't qualify one. You must be mindful of the requirements when you build and make material and equipment choices that will qualify the house you build.
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Nice upper storey but
Posted by ML on 10/31/2006 5:04:00 PM

How about doing a single-storey design to compete in the "double-wide" modular home market? Locking and flanging containers together would be very strong,
The "porch" is a nice touch for Southern homes as it is both useful and non-container-looking.
I really like the upper storey treatment! The bay windows are a good idea for containers. They would be easy to fabricate.
A single storey home would not require a crane to assemble. Using a steel beam and pier foundation you could lock the ISOs side by side to add space.

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If anyone is still interested in container homes...
Posted by Soren Ludwig on 5/2/2007 11:57:00 PM

Please visit us at www.sustainourworld.com (partnering with www.globalpeacecontainers.com).

We have many years of experience and we will work with people to deliver container homes, buildings and designs to their liking.

Thank You,

Soren Ludwig, CEO
404-936-1818
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Flat Roof
Posted by Mitch on 5/9/2007 11:51:00 AM

What about the flat roof,when rain falls.
How does the water drain-off.
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Low-slope roof
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 5/11/2007 8:00:00 PM

The roof of the Plat House is not flat, it has a 12" rise to the center so there is plenty of slope for positive drainage of water over the edge, and no opportunity for ponding or other classic flat roof problems.
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Posted by D'Arcy Ellis on 6/29/2007 7:01:00 PM

Would like more information and/or a brochure about this particular style home/homeplan.
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all info is on our site
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 7/3/2007 5:48:00 PM

Hi D'Arcy, all the information you need is on our web site. Follow the links from the article above, or go to:

www.lamidesign.com/plans
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ADA versions of your plans
Posted by Donna on 7/16/2007 2:11:00 PM

Greg, Do you have ADA friendly houses designed somewhat along the lines of the Plat House? I love the linear layout but things like bathrooms and the smaller bedroom seem like they would be issues for us when it comes to using a wheelchair in that house. Just wondering if I missed something already here or if it is something you could adapt. Thanks!

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accessible is an easy mod
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 7/16/2007 8:40:00 PM

It would be an easy modification to make the Plat House accessible. I'm always ready to do plan mods for customers with special needs such as this.
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Need Expert Architecture and planner for Container Conversion
Posted by Zakir Abowath on 7/29/2007 12:15:00 AM

Dear All
We are in business of container fabrication and refurbishing since last 20 years. We are looking for well experienced person to work with us as managar planning, refurbishing and construction to convert sea container into different modules.
Any body with relevant experience looking for challenging job in middle east and pakistan please write to
zakir abowath
email : zakir@zias.com.pk
web : www.zias.com.pk
tel ; 0092 333 2281477 cell
tel : 0092 21 5837942 ofc.

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intrigued by modern design
Posted by Jojo Carcia on 8/18/2007 8:00:00 PM

After reading my latest issue of Dwell and seeing your ad in the back of the magazine, I just had to check out the designs on your site. Marvelous! What I would really like to see more of, however, are plans with smaller square footage, as I detest the McMansion philosophy. I am not yet in a position to purchase land, but I'm doing positive thinking! I will keep checking back to see if any more folks post pictures of their completed projects. It's great to see the whole project, from clearing to completion.
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More projects on the Blog
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 8/22/2007 7:32:00 AM

We are currently tracking 2 Plat House projects and 1 Tray House on the blog:

http://blog.lamidesign.com

You can use the category links at the right side to bring up posts only for those projects.

As far as size, most of our house designs are 2500 sqft or less with only one over 3000. We are definitely not in mcmansion territory.
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in Nebraska
Posted by Jason Cooper on 9/2/2007 7:00:00 AM

As you probably know, Nebraska has some harsh winters. Has anyone built one of your homes in such a climate?
Is there any concern with heating with -40 windchill?
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Love the designs...
Posted by John Masters on 9/4/2007 10:23:00 PM

I love the house and the stylish design. I am wondering how a house like this would look with antique furniture inside? I have loads of that..I am thinking the dichotomy could be appealing. Also, here in the North East US we have lots of snow. How will the roof hold up?

Thanks...JM
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thanks, northern climates no problem
Posted by lavardera on 9/8/2007 2:38:00 PM

Jason, I've had customers build other designs in Nova Scotia and Vermont. The bottom line is you have to have the plans checked locally and adjust the size of the rafters to compensate if needed. Also, the plans are done for 2x4 walls, and a jump to 2x6 will pick up more insulation, and is easy to do.

John, same comments apply for you in northeast. As far as furniture - knock yourself out. The contrast of modern and traditional is always a winner.
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Hawaii
Posted by Mitch Hale on 9/19/2007 1:22:00 AM

I'm moving to Hawaii next summer and would like to know if your plans would be permitted there.
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Hawaii, qualified
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 9/21/2007 7:40:00 PM

They would, while they would have to be checked for various structural issues. Hawaii has earthquake as well as wind issues so the structural design of any stock plan should be reviewed for Hawaii.

Now aside from that Hawaii has a very different climate from the rest of the country. Outdoor living is possible in a way that other places can't offer, and dealing with rain and being outside under cover is also a thing that is often desired there. If you like any of my designs for that setting, great, but a modified design or custom design if you can afford it would make the most of living there.
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Porch House build
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 11/7/2007 10:26:00 AM

FYI we do have a customer building a Porch House outside of Austin, TX. You can follow it on our blog as we are updated by the owner with photos.

http://blog.lamidesign.com/search/label/0367%20Porch%20House
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Porch House build
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 11/26/2007 7:16:00 PM

More photos of the Austin Porch House under construction:

http://blog.lamidesign.com/2007/11/austin-porch-house-framing-going-gang.html
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Interior finishes and casework/cabinetry
Posted by Steve Ray on 12/4/2007 7:47:00 PM

Greg:
I just found your site this evening and have read through the entire blog; very interesting discussion and excellent ideas presentation. I'm currently looking for a home in Portland, Oregon, and the idea of building, now after seeing these examples, is suddenly much more appealing. I studied the Plat House that was constructed in Arkansas--on the river--and was very impressed with the built-in cabinetry and casework. Are these interior elements part of the design plans package? I assume the kitchen cabinetry is, but all the other--like the low cabinets in the living room and probably elsewhere--were they just noted on the plans as "by others" or N.I.C.? Anyway, very thoughtful and exciting designs.
Steve Ray
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cabinetry
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 12/10/2007 6:04:00 PM

Hi Steve, thanks for the kind words and I'm glad you enjoyed the site and blog.

As far as the cabinetry, the layout of the cabinet groups is shown on the plans, but no detail of the configuration of individual cabinets. This is left for the home owner to work out with the cabinet supplier - as you know most vendors employ "designers" to layout their product. I find that most customers end up significantly altering the kitchen layout to suit their preferences, which is the way it should be with a stock plan.

As far as the wall of cabinets in the Plat House. The documents show a layout for these, as they are meant to fit between the windows. However the spacing of the windows will dictate custom cabinets. The owners of the Arkansas Plat House used standard cabinets and altered the layout to work with the standard sizes to save money. It turned out quite well.
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Bear/hug
Posted by Dave Deming on 12/17/2007 5:12:00 PM

Cool design, there's the hug, but if the bears in my area (W. Mass.) get one sniff of that kitchen....OMG!
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bears!
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 12/17/2007 7:11:00 PM

Unless you want your porch to look like a cage match of the World Wrestling Championship I'd suggest some roll down storm shutters.
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Texas land needs a house.
Posted by texasBound on 1/9/2008 3:17:00 PM

I want to build a lodge style, "T" shaped house. The two arms will be entered by a French door which will lead to a bedroom. Beyond the bedroom is the hall with walk-in closets and beyond that is the spacious bath will a soaking tub front and center, two sinks on each side. Commode and shower on the right and left as you enter the room.

The body of the “T” will be two stories high. Family room and formal dinning will be divided with a fireplace seen from both sides and soaring the full height. The French doors to the two arm bedrooms will open from the dining room.

The top and center of the “T” body will be the eat in kitchen, mud/laundry room and half bath.

I want it in Livingston Texas. What will be the cost?
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A bazilliondy dollars!
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 1/19/2008 1:30:00 PM

Sorry to yank your chain Tesas Land, but you gotta realize that there is nothing there to go on. Throw us a bone? How many square feet? Call a builder in your area and get some feedback on prevailing construction cost. We'll be happy to help you with the design when you are ready.
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more photos from the Austin Porch House build
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 2/7/2008 6:47:00 PM

More photos were posted to our blog this week:

http://blog.lamidesign.com/2008/02/austin-porch-house-plat-house-come-into.html

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What about timber framing the Plat house etc.?
Posted by John on 4/5/2008 4:49:00 AM

And using SIPS on the outside?

Also, what do you think Reinke shakes would look like for siding material?

http://www.reinkeshakes.com/
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yes, yes, and why not
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 4/5/2008 7:42:00 AM

The porch level is essentially timberframed already, and you could use SIPs on the second level as well. You could support it with timber framing I suppose, but the spans are not so great that you could not just build it using load bearing SIPs.

The Reinke shakes look cool to me - I like the idea using it for siding, yeah!
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Hikers Lodge
Posted by Steven on 5/28/2008 5:16:00 PM

I want to build a 1000-1200 sq ft structure that is a large screened in porch featuring fire station style glass garage doors, that sit just inside the screen panels, such that one can raise the doors (2 on each of the long sides of the structure) to open up the space, but close them to keep dust out (or heat in). Fireplace on one short end, with a kitchen and full bath on the other. Kitchen and bath to open into the larger space via weather-stripped doors (sliding?) so these areas remain bug-free in the off-season. Any leads on something already designed thusly? Do I just get a builder to go at it without plans, or would that be crazy?
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smaller porch house?
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 5/31/2008 7:41:00 AM

Steven, I could see a one story version of the Porch House doing what you are describing, but its so different it would be like designing a new house. I'm not sure what to tell you - working with the builder without a set of plans is a crap shoot.
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Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia
Posted by janat on 7/15/2008 9:18:00 AM

Do you have any partnership and/or construction arrangements with any company in Santa Cruz, Bolivia? Your designs appear to be perfect for the several cabins we wish to erect on our country property.

Many thanks for any help and contacts you can provide.
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simply order plans
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 7/23/2008 9:25:00 PM

No, I don't have partnerships with any company in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, but you are welcome to order plans to use for your cabins.
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Dark Knight
Posted by mercure615 on 8/2/2008 11:28:00 AM

The minimalist interiors in the new "Dark Knight" (Batman--yes, don't laugh) movie are not only mouth watering in their spare beauty, but also leave a viewer like me wanting minimalist houses, elevations, and floor plans to match. And workable in the Northeast where heavy, wet snow can be a serious, deadly problem on top of unsloped roofs.

Any thoughts?
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Bright Daze
Posted by Greg La Vardera on 8/5/2008 3:46:00 PM

A roof, sloped, or unsloped as you put it, have to be designed to support the local snow load. In other words there is no issue here. Don't feel restrained by the weather.

This question often comes up and I must admit that I am quite amazed that people have this misconception. Anyplace you go in this country you will find commercial buildings with flat roofs. No big deal. It is designed to be strong enough for the load. A house with a flat roof is more unusual, but no harder to do.

Then people say "but flat roofs leak!" I have news for you - all roofs leak, eventually. The problem that most flat roofs have is that they use a parapet wall (look in your dictionary) and internal roof drains. If a drain blocks, or a pipe leaks, you have water in the house or building. A sloped roof with gutters, well when your gutter leaks you don't really notice do you?

All that said none of my designs have flat roofs. I only use low slope roofing when the roof is not steep, and all my designs bring water over the outside wall into a gutter - no internal roof drains.

I hope we can close the roofing portion of our discussion now. :)

PS: gotta love Bruce's lair!
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Posted by Hossein Falsafi on 11/10/2008 8:39:00 PM

Hi Greg me too like many others it's my first time here very interesting.
there is a real human being behind this site.
Keep up the good job!
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Query about House Plan website
Posted by Rinka on 5/6/2009 4:14:00 AM

Dear Gregory

I did see your designs on House Plan Website. I am considering them, and just wanted to know how is your relationship with them. Do lot of people respond to these house plans, as I am not very clear about this virtual space.
Do let me know.
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Design
Posted by Logan on 6/25/2009 7:22:00 AM

Greg, I like the simplicity. We have an architectural firm in our area (RDC Architects) that does similar work. They also work online. Any advice?
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