Greenhouse Transformation
Replacing a shed with a greenhouse and overhauling a deck
Portland-Oregon
Harka helped homeowners in the Richmond neighborhood elevate their indoor - outdoor experience by creating a 3-4 season outdoor room with an integrated greenhouse.
Project overview
We added a custom roof structure to assure opportunity for year-round outdoor entertaining. We improved the indoor/outdoor transition from the kitchen to both a morning (east facing) and evening (west facing) deck. The new greenhouse provides privacy while being afforded the best light exposure on the site. The front yards gardening spaces have been enhanced in the front yard. Finally, we provided the opportunity to age in place with the added an accessibility ramp in the setback.
The problem
The homeowners love to garden as well as entertain. The home had a nice deck on the east side they used in the morning, but it had a step down and was too small to fit a table. There was a patio at grade to the SW, but the access from the kitchen was awkward due to the narrow door and immediate steps. While the space was suited to entertain a small group of friends, it would overheat from the intense evening sun. As avid gardeners, they wanted more usable planting spaces to the south and they needed a larger place to propagate plants. We came in to help UPLIFT their gardening and entertaining experience.
easily accessible outdoor entertainment space that can be used all year round
New gathering space
Harka redesigned a deck at the same level as the home to provide a smooth transition from the kitchen. We incorporated a hybrid roof, utilizing an opaque portion to the west to block the intense western sun in the evening, and a clear polycarbonate east side to allow light into both the outdoor and indoor spaces.
Diffused Light
We used vertical wood slats to defuse the low western sun, while allowing cooling breezes to flow through the space.
Pacific Northwest feel and refined aesthetic structural interest.
We carefully designed the structural system to avoid structural upgrades to the home and deal with tricky waterproofing conditions. This was achieved with custom site-built trusses. The finishes provide a warm and cozy Pacific Northwest feel and a refined structural aesthetic.
Barn door
We incorporated a slatted barn door for cozy, intimate gatherings and to provide more security from the street as needed. The end result is a much-improved, easily accessible outdoor entertainment space that can be used all year around.
GREENHOUSE
Optimal growing Environment for Every Season
The homeowners are huge green thumbs, so we included upgrades to their garden and a big focus on plants in their project scope. We designed a Juniper retaining wall that expanded the raised beds along the south-facing front yard, facilitating an incredible amount of gardening space. Juniper was chosen in lieu of concrete to lower the environmental impact.
Stack Effect
To extend the gardening season, the homeowners wanted a well-functioning greenhouse. We designed the new greenhouse to utilize stack effect principles. Cooler air enters through vents near the floor, pulling moisture and heat from the greenhouse as it rises and leaves through upper windows. An exhaust fan was located at the top to offer a boost when needed. These elements can be closed to control temperature and humidity, creating an adjustable growing environment that can adapt to every season.
Preparing for their future aging while staying in their home
We strategically placed the greenhouse at the same level as the home, and at the south end of the deck. The location provides easy one-level access and allows south light to filter into the deck through the indoor garden, while providing privacy from the street.
Age in-place
The ramp was located in the setback to add accessible passage to the outdoor space, the greenhouse, and the home. The ramp is also extremely functional for moving gardening materials and recumbent bicycles through the site. We relocated the washer and dryer to the main level to help the homeowners prepare for their future. Having everything on the same level allows them to stay in their home for as long as they can, while still being able to access the greenhouse and outdoor space.
Street Appeal
Rather than just providing a purely functional greenhouse, the design upgrades the street edge. The structure is nestled behind lush green gardens with a pop of color that hints at the warmth and comfort that lies within.
