House S by Roger Christ:

"This specific construction assignment is a central topic of today’s urban development: the roof area as building site which can be covered with independent buildings – urban compression by utilization of roof areas as valuable building land.
Thereby the architect is always confronted with the question of how to handle with the existing building in a contemporary sense. In the case of House S a 60´s bungalow, built by interior architect Wilfried Hilger for himself and his family.
Due to space limitations the new owners, a family of four, decided to heightening the existing bungalow and furthermore to renovate the basic structure. To keep the bungalow’s typical character three single boxes were placed on a cantilevered flat roof, which are connected only by a glass corridor.
The new structure creates zones with different qualities: in the south-west a meadow with a small apple tree, in the north a stone paved courtyard with a pine tree and in the east a roof terrace with a magnolia. In one of the new boxes the master bedroom, dressing room and bath room is located. The two other boxes function as personal living room and home office for the landlords.
In the first floor nearly all walls and installations were removed, so that a large living room could be created. An open kitchen was placed in the midst of that living area. This floor additionally includes the children’s rooms with dressing room and bathroom.
In the ground floor a guest room and an additional apartment is located. By the usage of triple glazed windows and highly effective insulation an energetically optimized building could be realized."

modern grass roof house

modern house with roof deck terrace

“Philosophy and Goals

The goal of the townhouse is to construct a “state of the art” building, incorporating contemporary and “green” technologies and products directed by world-class design.  By incorporating these features with a prime location in the heart of downtown New Canaan, this project caters to the luxury home consumer valuing in-town convenience with modern amenities and features.

Specialties

This project has a modern, flexible floor plan with all the amenities.  There is a large, multifunctional lower level with a zoned apartment.  Amenities include three fireplaces, central vacuum and high-performance appliances, and a spa master bath including a steam sauna and a whirlpool.  This project also has an extensive roof top lifestyle program including an exterior deck with a hot tub, cookout center and a fireplace.  There is an elevator encouraging this program which travels from the lower level to roof top.

Construction

The building is supported by a concrete foundation with a structural steel frame and poured concrete decks. There is also interior steel and engineered lumber wall framing.  The modern geometric exterior is achieved by zinc panels and cedar wood wall cladding and detailing.

Mechanical

The townhouse achieved LEED Silver certification by its use of several “green” technologies including thermal massing radiant floors with central air conditioning.  The use of photovoltaics supplements electric and solar-heated water.  Water is also recycled through a roof water collection system and sprinkler system. Lutron lighting control systems and wiring for motorized window treatments create a comfortable living environment in addition to the alarm system and stereo system incorporated into the project.

Windows & Doors

Natural lighting is also factored into the project as a means of being ecologically responsible. High performance glazing is used with European Lift & Slide door unites and casement windows. Also incorporated into the project are a roof sky window, custom 2” interior doors, and high grade hardware.

Millwork & Finishes

The interior detailing and crisp joinery gives a clean, modern look using natural finished Sycamore Millwork, European ceramic/porcelain tiles, Caesarstone countertops, and European oak engineered wood flooring.

Landscape

Central to creating a specialty home is the well designed garden and hardscape plan, with custom designed decks, patios, water features, and a fountain.

Summary

This 5,300 square foot home with a cost of $4 million is a smashing, elegant 21st century building with intelligent and well-conceived design.”