Greenhouse Transformation
Replacing a shed with a greenhouse and overhauling a deck
Portland-Oregon
Harka helped homeowners in the Richmond neighborhood realise a new version for their outdoor space by improving access to two patios and making their shed more functional.
Project overview
We added a roof structure to create a year-round entertainment space while improving the indoor/outdoor transition from the kitchen. We also transformed the shed into a greenhouse, enhanced the gardening space in the front yard, and added an accessibility ramp.
The problem
Several spaces in this project were problem areas for the homeowners. The home had a nice patio off the kitchen, used for relaxing and entertaining guests; however, the patio was on ground level and access from the kitchen was awkward due to the narrow door and steps. Another patio on the SW corner of the home would overheat from the intense evening sun, and they had a fairly new shed that did not work well for them. We came in to help make these two patios and their shed more functional, relevant, and to realize a new vision for their space.
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, utilising an opaque portion to the west to block the intense western sun in the evening, and a clear polycarbonate east side to let in light to 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. To achieve this, we designed site-built trusses and a roof structure to provide a warm and cozy Pacific Northwest feel and refined aesthetic structural interest.
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.
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, taking in 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 could be closed to control temperature and humidity, creating an optimal growing environment that is adaptable 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.
Age in-place
We installed a ramp 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.
