Loft-Living in the Woods: Simple Plans for a Tight Budget

Design Confidently, Live Comfortably



	Lower-cost view Using mostly fixed-glass windows saves money.

The only way we had any hope of bringing the house in even close to Bruce and Sara’s budget was to keep the construction very simple. We designed the foundations of both the house and studio as simple rectangles, with no fancy angles or curves to complicate construction. We also designed the footings to be poured at one level, simplifying both the excavator’s and the mason’s jobs.

In thinking through any construction project and in presenting working drawings to a builder, we try to make the construction look as straightforward as possible. If the builder feels the house will be easy to build, the house will cost less than if he thinks it will be difficult. We don’t always succeed, but as one example, all the materials used in the Qualeys’ house (except the master bathroom tile) were from a local lumberyard and local suppliers. We didn’t want the builder to worry about ordering exotic materials from distant suppliers. Despite the simple nature of both the plan and the construction, the house feels rich and varied.

NEXT: Everyday Materials with a Twist

BACK: A Mix of Lofty and Intimate Rooms

	IN THIS ARTICLE:

		Introduction

		A Mix of Lofty and Intimate Rooms

		Simple Plans for a Tight Budget

		Everyday Materials with a Twist

		Blending in with the Environment–almost

		Carving Out Space For a Cozy Room

		A Plain Rectangle Acquires Character

		A Continuous Roofline Saves Money

		Floor Plan

		Resources

PHOTO:
JOHN GRUEN