House Plan: DFD-3157

This 565 sq. ft. Cottage is one of our Lifetime Series:

A Lifetime Home...
Why It's Extraordinary...
Why It's Green:

1) Utility Independence

This two-fold initiative will enable development in remote locations and provide additions to current homes for supplemental, or even primary utility services. This practical and affordable Utility Independence Series provides new opportunities for vacation retreats, private quarters hidden in remote natural areas, and Freedom to live virtually wherever you choose without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

2) Learning from the Past, Planning for the Future...

With each new day, we seem to be confronted with issues of depleting resources or other environmental concerns. This series of designs offers a proactive opportunity to reverse the trend, to use emerging technologies, to become increasingly self-sufficient and become a part, not of the problem, but of the solution.

3) The Independence Cottage:

Whether a compliment to your current home, or that Retreat you've always wanted, this cottage may be the ideal choice. The Gambrel roof, traditional barn construction, provides a perfect solution for Utility Independence. The shallow upper pitch of the upper roof slops conceals the application of Dow Powerhouse shingles. The steeper side slopes provide increased living space within the upper level while minimizing exterior maintenance. The exterior wall construction is of 6" SIP Construction (Structural Insulated Panels). The gutters route rainwater to the cistern installed beneath the stairs in the garage providing convenient and virtually cost-free irrigation.

While designed primarily for one or two, the built-in sofa also converts easily to a bed for guests. The bedroom features a walk-in closet and direct access to the bath. The entertainment center is easily viewable from the sofa or the banquette. The kitchen is an efficiency design and includes a spacious pantry.

The Garage level provides storage for an array of solar & mechanical equipment, including a tankless water heater and optional laundry. The cupola provides an attractive architectural detail, but also conceals a Gale Vertical Axis Wind Generator adding to the versatile power generating capabilities of The Independence Cottage.