JOHN DWYER ARCHITECT


Location
Year  
Construction   
Photography

Minneapolis, Minnesota
2022 Completed
A2 Builders
Kyle Huberty A basement fire began consumed their home, trapping their family dog inside.  The unique nature of the fire made it a challenge to fight and sadly, their beloved companion was lost, along with most of their possessions.

The house was a complete loss and insurance mandated a nearly impossible construction budget and timeline.  Design decisions focused on predictability, and immediate availability.  The first decision was to contain the new home within the hole left behind.  While still requiring a variance, this decision expedited the zoning process and preserved the root zones of four mature trees.

While restricted to pre-made roof trusses, orientation and angles still allowed for the integration of an active solar array to offset most of the home’s energy.  Insulation was maximized and storage was pushed to outside walls where possible to increase thermal performance.  Windows were minimized in number, but maximized in size and a solitary leaded glass window, salvaged from the fire, was integrated into the entry and stair as a daily remembrance of what was lost.


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