Not every site is a blank canvas just waiting for a home to be placed on it. Some lots come with their own set of challenges - steep slopes, tricky soil, or environmental restrictions - but that doesn’t mean to pass on them. In fact, these difficulties can lead to some of the most creative and integrated designs. Instead of working against the land, we aim to find ways to work with it, ensuring that each home feels like it truly belongs in its surroundings.

Sloped Sites:

At first glance, a steep lot might seem like a hassle, but it's typically a chance to create something harmonious with the grade. A home that follows the natural terrain can have multi-level living spaces, uninterrupted views, and a layout that feels dynamic and unique. Building into the hillside can mean daylight in basements, tiered patios, and natural cooling by embedding parts of the home into the earth. We know how midwesterners love a walkout basement, and sloped lots typically offer walk-out capability from 2 or more levels.

Challenging Soil Conditions:

Some lots have less-than-ideal soil or high water tables, but that doesn’t mean they can’t support a well-designed home. Instead of costly excavation or soil replacement, we also look at other foundation options like pier foundations, deep footings, or structural slabs. These all work to distribute the weight more effectively. If water is a concern, smart drainage solutions can help manage runoff and keep everything dry. Rain gardens are another great option, offering a natural way to control stormwater while also adding beauty to the landscape. Plus, they support native plant life and create a seamless transition between your home and the environment.

"Instead of working against the land, we aim to find ways to work with it."

Access and Site Limitations:

Narrow, oddly shaped lots or properties with tough access points require a little extra creativity. In urban areas, this might mean building up instead of out, while in rural locations, it might influence the type of construction methods and materials we use. No matter the situation, there’s always a way to maximize the space and find ways to access the site. These limitations are usually opportunities to do something unexpected or explore a new method of building.

Environmental Restrictions:

The inherent ecology of a site, such as wetlands, floodplains, or protected areas, can often dictate the possibilities for a site. If building can occur respectfully within or near these areas, it presents an opportunity to create homes that thoughtfully interact with the surrounding environment. Elevated foundations, boardwalks, and carefully planned site layouts allow homes to exist in harmony with sensitive lands rather than disrupting them. Choosing the right materials and construction techniques ensures that the home will last for generations while remaining respectful of its surroundings.

Next up in part 4 of this series, we’ll explore how to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living.