Client Philosophy
In
the interview with Seth Anawalt, topics of the overall goals, profile and
requirements of the St. Elmo building in Palouse, WA renovation were discussed.
The main vision Seth wanted to achieve in the apartment spaces and common area
in the building was a place that naturalistic, yet classical. In the overall
space, he wanted to create a flow with structure, with the ability to “dance
through the room” (Anawalt). An
architect he mentioned whose worked he liked was Frank Lloyd Wright, but not as
boxy. Keeping the history in the building especially on the exterior prevailed
as an important part of the renovation in order to keep the history of the 1887
building. As for the interior, he wants it to “be modern, because we are
designing for people who are going to live there, that live in the 21st
century. So it will be a mix of the old and the new “ (Anawalt). Seth asked
locals what Seth discussed his plans for the second floor renovations we would
be working on including the construction on a one bed-room, two bedroom,
elevator, stairs and common area. Other areas in the space that will eventually
be renovated are an additional two apartment space, spa, and laundry room. Seth
expressed his vision to preserve and restore as much of the building as
possible. When asked about features that he would like to be kept, overall, he expresses that he is pretty open
to changes, giving the approval to add some coving at the top of the ceiling,
changing window shapes, opening the floor plan, and softening up some angles to
portray a yin-yang balance. Keeping history was also important, but Seth is
contemplating whether to keep the name of St. Elmo’s, the other option Seth may
choose is St. Valentines as he envisions a romantic retreat in the future.
Client Profile
A wide range of occupants are considered for tenants.
Seth anticipates a combination of locals renting the apartments and the space
of the spa to be a destination for people all over the region. Along with those
passing through to stop and eat, visit for a football game, he hopes that it
will bring in people from farther destinations. When finished, the building
will have eight rooms, and hopefully some can be used as hotel rooms.
Unfortunately due to the lack of space, this building will not allow pets on
the building.
Materials
Restoration is essential in this renovation, so Seth
stressed that he wanted to keep as much materials from the existing structure
as possible. With the materials he will need to bring into the space, he wants
natural materials with little to no VOC. “Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are
released as gases from certain solids or liquids, and can cause short- and
long-term health effects. Materials that include high levels of VOC are paints
and lacquers, paint strippers, cleaning supplies, and building materials and
furnishings. High concentrations of VOC are often ten times higher indoors than
outside due to the materials” (An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality: Volatile
Organic Compounds (VOCs)). To keep the building safe to live in, Seth has
requested that the paint, flooring, paneling, etc. accommodate this
feature.
Other materials Seth preferred to have used in the space
included hardwood, stone, marble, granite, and tile. Other sustainable
materials he suggested were glass, rock, natural paint, and stainless steel,
ceramic, or porcelain sinks. Sustainable materials that have already been used
in the space is the lumber, and sub floor with 0 VOC. Other sustainable
materials that could be effective in the building that have worked for other
homes are “redwood claddings, reclaimed engrained block wood, cork flooring and highly
efficient appliances” (Hidden House). Plumbing materials should be eco-friendly
PVC pipes, and copper to withstand rats and other animals.
Structure
With the building over 130 years old, some conflicting
issues occurred with the existing structure and the requirements for the new
design. On the third floor, which will be completed after the second floor is
complete, is four apartments, a men’s spa, and possibly a greenhouse if space
permits. Seth also plans to keep the skylight that stretches through the third
and second floor. Leading right into the common area, the skylight will provide
natural lighting, as it was intended for in 1887. Seth suggests adding to the
skylight some glass structure that will play along with the natural lighting. Day
light will play a large role in the lighting of this building, though there are
windows already installed from the existing structure, he is open to changing
the windows. He states he wants to have a unity of windows looking from the
outside, but is interested in geometric shaped windows.
Issues regarding the amenities in the apartment are
parking, security, storage space, and noise control. To ensure the safety of
the occupants, Seth plans to include double locks on the doors. The spa is
public, but open to the residents at all hours. For this issue, Seth will
designate times the spa is open and closed to the public. For parking, there is
a back lot, but he will further have to check if he is required to provide
parking spaces for the tenants. Strict leases will regulate the noise control
of the building, and he says he will insulate walls where he think is needed.
Built in storage space is included in some of the walls as a pantry/ closet.
Other storage will take place as the occupant needs.
The exterior of the building he hopes to preserve. Seth
prefers the old brick look as it fits better in the environment compared to the
modern metal worked buildings. In addition, he hopes to restore the 2nd
floor balcony, possibly adding balconies on the outside of all the units.
Furnishings
In the apartments, Seth will not be providing furniture,
but will be providing appliances. Though no specific brand has been chosen for
the appliances, Seth has created somewhat of a checklist the appliances must
meet, such as; high efficiency, green appliance brand, and does not take up a
lot of room. He does not want microwaves, and prefers an electric, not gas
stove, therefore he prefers a range and a dishwasher is optional. The overall
kitchen needs to be spacious, well located appliances, easy access cupboards
and cabinets.
There will be a laundry room located on both floors for
the tenants to use. Seth will not be equipping the building with WIFI, as there
is a library next door. Later a computer and fitness area will be added off of
the common area for the occupant use.
The vision for the common area is an informal, private,
quiet and nice area to give the people in the apartment breathing room. Some
seating should be provided but with the idea of the space “flowing” in mind. Seth
suggests getting rid of the existing hanging lighting and adding central
lighting. On the topic of the spa, an infrared sauna, Jacuzzi, tea room,
massage room and shower room will be included.
The
design of the St. Elmo’s building is meant to be open and free. A broad palette
of earth and sky tones will be used to portray a natural, harmonious
atmosphere.
Accessibility
Seth
realizes that potentially a young couple could move in and live there until
they are in their 70’s which proposes the topic of accessibility in the
building. One feature of the building is a five person elevator that will give
occupants access to all the floors, accommodating those with a disability. He
is very enthusiastic on incorporating universal design including appliances,
furnishings, and layouts for aging in place, and people with disabilities.
References
Anawalt, Seth. Group Interview. 5 Sept. 2012
"Hidden House Is a Stunning Example of
Sustainable Modern Architecture | Inhabitat - Sustainable Design Innovation,
Eco Architecture, Green Building." Hidden House Is a Stunning Example of
Sustainable Modern Architecture | Inhabitat - Sustainable Design Innovation,
Eco Architecture, Green Building. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Sept. 2012.
<http://inhabitat.com/hidden-house-is-a-stunning-example-of-sustainable-modern-architecture/>.
"An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality:
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency,
n.d. Web. 08 Sept. 2012. <http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html>.
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