The homes are constructed using an innovative fiber-cement faced insulated panel (SIPs) for walls, roofs and even floors. These are in turn supported by an elegant timber-frame structure made from locally harvested pines that rests on a structural concrete slab with radiant floor heating. Insulated shoji-like translucent walls are an option for added daylighting and ambiance. (Click on the image to see an exploded diagram of the building components.)

On the main living floor, the living/dining 'great room' and kitchen open directly via glass sliding doors onto the skylit courtyard garden. The courtyard serves as the entry point to the house from both the primary entrance off the garden walkway and the garage entry from the level below. Next to the courtyard, within easy access of the kitchen is a multi-purpose greenhouse 'wet room'. Other spaces on the main floor can be flexibly configured for bedrooms, offices, etc.

A compact upper bedroom level accomodates two loft-ready "treehouse" bedrooms and a balcony space that looks out over the courtyard. The multi-compartment bathroom enables family members to use each function separately. In between the two bedrooms is an area suitable for media. This level can readily be expanded to include a third bedroom.

The lower level features a studio-style apartment with its own garden in addition to having a spacious double car garage, a wine and cheese cellar, as well as a workshop/storage space. The entry vestibule is preconfigured to accommodate a handicap-accessible lift, which can be added at any time if needed.