tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-121788132012-02-16T02:51:46.857-08:00iT house blogthe high desert model home in processTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comBlogger1671100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-88937355169064576492009-08-24T17:19:00.000-07:002009-08-24T17:41:11.474-07:00To view new posts about the itHouse and itHouse related items please visit the itHouse Fan Page in FacebookitHouse Facebook Fan PageTo view the construction process of the itHouse v1.0 continue below.......Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-83895327688989221692008-12-26T22:17:00.000-08:002008-12-26T22:22:42.934-08:00I went out at dark to walk up the road and text Linda that everything was OK-there's no cell service at the house. Walking at night through hip-deep snow was an amazing experience but I got a little scared after I let her know I was fine - so I used my iphone as a flashlight and found coyote and bobcat tracks criss-crossing my tracks. Got back in one piece and woke to find coyote tracks going up Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-54713627158065841462008-12-26T22:16:00.000-08:002008-12-26T22:17:56.631-08:00The roof wasn't specifically designed for snow loads. Good thing structural engineers design with a x4 safety factor!Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-76391641024844607162008-12-26T22:14:00.000-08:002008-12-26T22:16:12.006-08:00I couldn't figure out how to get off the roof without slipping once I got up there to clear the snow of the solar panels. Then I realized the best method was to simply fall into a giant drift of snow for a nice soft landing.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-63959056008272957832008-12-26T22:10:00.000-08:002008-12-26T22:14:07.097-08:0040" of snow and three miles of walking (no snow shoes) from my abandoned 4wdr Subaru to check our house. No one in our area has seen anything like this snow storm for 30 years or more. Because I knew the solar panels would be covered by snow, I wanted to get up there to jump-start the house so I wouldn't have any frozen pipes. The Sheriff's helicopter hovered in front of the house to make sure weTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-43992912727526164552008-08-06T18:34:00.000-07:002008-08-06T18:38:27.279-07:00Check out the iT house feature in the November issue of Dwell.We will be launching our new website for the iT house, a development project called "Three Junipers", and the Taalman Koch main website all to coincide with the article.Links to our new iT house sites will be available at taalmankoch.comTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-83606089999503656372008-04-11T20:51:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:21:46.497-08:00perfect weather has arrivedwe luxuriate in opening up all the sliding doorsTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-32191128503665129592008-04-11T20:38:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:21:46.695-08:00even the bathroom is open to the fresh airTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-53195439951952926482008-04-11T20:37:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:21:46.844-08:00Oleana loves our new curtainsTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-68395499677421350492008-04-11T20:36:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:21:46.943-08:00bath timeTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-55459992229738396982008-04-11T20:34:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:21:47.331-08:00spring flowers are bloomingTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-30883316572758021062008-04-11T20:30:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:21:47.486-08:00Summer plays hide and seek with OleanaTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-4389539983892655152008-04-11T20:29:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:21:47.665-08:00the new bench has a nice hand-hewn quality that contrastsnicely with the aluminum and glassTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-15485502679330461052008-04-11T20:25:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:21:47.894-08:00Olee's friend Summer sitting on the new benchTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-29928807532422220272008-04-11T20:23:00.002-07:002008-12-11T17:21:48.053-08:00almost doneTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-59780110660154308492008-04-11T20:23:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:21:48.369-08:00halfway thereTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-50680211713085371972008-04-11T20:22:00.002-07:002008-12-11T17:21:48.496-08:00we salvaged a tree from another construction project of Chris'here's what it looked like right after the first longitudinal cut just before we slid the scrap piece offTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-53515078071180530792008-04-11T20:22:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:21:49.294-08:00Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-8256059908402051672008-04-11T20:20:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:21:49.711-08:00Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-40619176773114084002008-03-05T20:04:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:50.600-08:00the stair delivers guest right to the entry courtTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-38680266304346843952008-03-05T20:03:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:51.055-08:00all the steel in placeTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-67042463647367381272008-03-05T19:59:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:51.243-08:00my cousin Chris Wilson - the late night welderTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-34916982673740083322008-03-05T19:56:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:51.537-08:00we installed the stair down from the parking area. they are steel risers (that will turn to an orange rust color) and decomposedgranite backfill.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-80381617147879417942008-02-26T20:21:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:21:51.821-08:00the house now feels complete with the pattern and curtains installed.it feels like a home.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-453065546255063552008-02-26T20:20:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:21:51.997-08:00now that the patterns are applied, we turn our focus towards the landscape work. on the left of the image traces of the constructiondriveway remain. we will begin to reshape and plant this area tohelp it blend back into the desert.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-81202132710362241282008-02-26T20:19:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:52.471-08:00a little sweeping up after some visitors. 30 people from the houston art museum visited todayTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-28157168053549985532008-02-26T20:12:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:52.652-08:00the front door with the finished patternTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-41418995194188246262008-02-04T21:49:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:21:52.716-08:00the far kitchen wall will also be covered in the pattern allthe way to where the curtain hangsTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-91353907551891804982008-02-04T21:49:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:21:52.879-08:00the design as seen from the entry court. we want to screen the view as you move towards the house so that the view isn't revealed untilentering the house properTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-25312151291905967702008-02-04T21:48:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:53.153-08:00the first two Sarah Morris / Liam Gillick panels were installed -the second panel is visible draped over the chair, still attachedto the transfer tapeTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-38578572092024807692008-01-28T20:36:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:53.256-08:00a beautiful three day rainstorm visits the high desert - snow in themountains just above us.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-76866129067032037982008-01-22T22:42:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:21:53.377-08:00the house sits on 5 acres of high desert hillside -it's the place we go to clear our minds.it is so remote that it has to function off-grid withgreen technologies.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-45721783494418296142008-01-22T22:41:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:21:53.873-08:00new curtains for the house designed and fabricated by Elodie Blanchard (http://www.elasticco.com/) the curtains are sheer to allow trace views to the landscape. white to reflect the sun's heat in summerTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-44082808366098127862008-01-22T22:41:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:21:54.062-08:00the guest bedroom curtainsTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-19852673836624085942008-01-22T22:39:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:21:54.616-08:00the master bedroom curtains are felt - sewn in narrow panelsto create a hinged pleat. we decided to make the curtain large enoughnot only to cover the glass doors to the courtyard, but also to actas our privacy door to the hallway.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-36243782550029535832008-01-22T22:39:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:21:56.241-08:00snow in the mountains just about 500 feet above usTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-17778884138399854402008-01-22T22:38:00.003-08:002008-12-11T17:21:56.764-08:00on one hand, getting reading for an early morning hike. on the otherhand, breakfast for the baby.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-12770172090174747642008-01-22T22:32:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:56.915-08:00the essential paradox of glass...Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-22067373578970202892008-01-22T22:31:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:57.156-08:00putting the kids to work in the gardenTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-43811729625093977322008-01-22T22:30:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:21:57.295-08:00holiday supper in styleTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-81445253742993189172008-01-22T22:30:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:21:57.522-08:00living room, dining room, and kitchen fully furnishedTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-62283223587504670062008-01-22T22:29:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:57.781-08:00our new couch finally arrived - there's nothing so civilizedas a good couchTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-12734653619583386062008-01-22T22:27:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:21:57.938-08:00christmas lights on our courtyard oakTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-1098696875183013262007-10-22T21:43:00.002-07:002008-12-11T17:21:58.038-08:00our corner of the high desertTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-65984799924507484482007-10-22T21:43:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:21:58.291-08:00working in the kitchen at duskTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-61185890509463042952007-10-22T21:41:00.002-07:002008-12-11T17:21:58.658-08:00detail of the pattern and its reflectionsTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-12664981525969575802007-10-22T21:41:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:21:58.766-08:00the vinyl pattern nicely fragments images of life in the houseTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-46099270017953553772007-10-22T21:40:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:21:58.930-08:00linda installing the test of the Sarah Morris / Liam Gillick vinyl patternTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-83144915975645198062007-10-22T21:36:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:21:59.189-08:00the house nicely situated in the landscapeTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-26339367766567869802007-08-15T20:34:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:21:59.515-08:00patterns and people in the living roomTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-3885436621800393902007-08-15T20:33:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:00.119-08:00patterns in the entry courtTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-50164125694156681102007-08-15T20:32:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:00.245-08:00a typical morning in bedTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-27600682417001742012007-08-15T20:31:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:00.404-08:00sunrise in the desertTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-37212745891010495912007-07-31T23:21:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:22:00.534-08:00shade canopies are installed in the Summer monthsTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-71516342499693594232007-07-31T23:20:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:00.836-08:00the canopies are made with aluminet and fabricated by Joshua Tree Outfitters.the fabric shades 70% of the sunshine.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-21008454211779227002007-07-31T23:17:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:00.970-08:00in the front courtyard we've placed a pine tree section to serve as a benchTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-15357148839275095622007-07-20T23:49:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:01.163-08:00snow bling curtains hang in the bathroom until wecan manage to install our graphic outfit on the glass wallsTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-80490932201663394242007-06-26T18:31:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:01.550-08:00Oleana and daddy atop the hill on the edge of our propertyTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-45687475167819874332007-06-26T18:30:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:01.824-08:00Linda and the view into the neighboring valleyas seen from our hilltopTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-50417681825786219732007-06-26T18:29:00.004-07:002008-12-11T17:22:02.242-08:00kitchen, dining room, front yard...Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-73924508356495610562007-06-26T18:29:00.003-07:002008-12-11T17:22:02.376-08:00Linda preparing dinner at the Bulthaup islandTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-57604894356015489882007-06-26T18:28:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:22:02.593-08:00glowing boxTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-13245894695929317172007-06-26T18:27:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:22:02.800-08:00sitting beside the outdoor fireplace is a perfect settting for dinner until our dining table arrivesTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-13329691809352296842007-06-26T18:26:00.003-07:002008-12-11T17:22:02.951-08:00the Bulthaup island is a beautiful minimal object sittingin the middle of the kitchenTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-34585210412276785862007-06-26T18:26:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:22:03.133-08:00the front facade and fire court as seen in the daybreak sunshineTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-35762636154055910582007-06-26T18:25:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:22:03.577-08:00Linda sits with Oleana on a rug by renee petropoulosTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-77066732282398873952007-06-26T18:24:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:03.773-08:00septic installation takes place just outside the living room wallsTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-46689881966392857742007-06-07T22:16:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:04.206-08:00there are hidden moments off pure beauty all over ourcorner of the high desertTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-2653673495729663892007-03-16T08:32:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:22:04.406-08:00"jumping" chollaTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-4347787116119893552007-03-16T08:31:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:04.962-08:00another day of work winding up just at dusk.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-33267410711307524332007-03-16T08:30:00.004-07:002008-12-11T17:22:05.087-08:00as this image shows, the panel arrays float cantelievered just above theroof. each array is located above a courtyard and the south-facing arrayalso acts as a shade canopy for the front court.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-47158827390635569972007-03-16T08:30:00.003-07:002008-12-11T17:22:05.299-08:00the solar mounting rack is our design, using smaller sections of thesame type of bosch extrusions. it is designed to "float" the panelsabove the roof in order to better transfer the structural loads to the ground and to minimize any roof penetrations that normalroof-mounted solar systems would create.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-38774286131226429862007-03-16T08:30:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:22:05.489-08:00our off-grid system includes 8 solar pv panels by Evergreen. they are mountedto the bosch structure in two groups of 4 panels.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-14693775714045828682007-03-16T08:29:00.001-07:002008-12-11T17:22:05.697-08:00the solar pv system includes two inverters, a 24V transformer, DC breakers,and assorted controllers to maximize our battery use and to convert the power from battery-stored DC power to conventional AC.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-29210547841828153482007-03-16T08:28:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:05.816-08:00since our house is off-grid the solar system includes 16 heavy duty batteries connected in serial fashion.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-42088235364644349982007-03-16T08:27:00.000-07:002008-12-11T17:22:06.025-08:00the bulthaup kitchen island is the only object in the kitchen.we didn't want any tall cabinets or tall appliances in order tokeep the space as minimal and pure as possible. we thereforesubstituted a more conventional type cabinet-island bybulthaup for the more open-type bulthaup workbench sinceall of our kitchen storage and appliances would need to belocated below the countertop. the refrigeratorTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-19581606037821296242007-03-06T22:33:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:22:06.233-08:00Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-36263872393374306242007-03-06T22:32:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:06.518-08:00the house slipping into the landscape.... the materials and shapes are a big contrast, but the massing of the house hugs the ground.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-90896820672914480732007-03-06T22:31:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:06.672-08:00Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-54298433769333006332007-03-06T22:28:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:07.179-08:00the bulthaup cabinets have arrived. we have opted for a bulthaup upgrade while eliminating the tall kitchen cabinets. everything in the kitchen will be below counter height including the refrigerator drawers.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-2159674542434508592007-03-06T22:27:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:07.411-08:00the black pipe hanging out of the ceiling is ourfireorb chimney. the fireorb hangs entirely from the ceiling while the mouth of the fire-opening can be swiveled to any direction in the living room.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-8459853061479084922007-03-06T22:24:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:07.678-08:00the bath is located so that the large sliding glass door can open for outdoor bathing. the orange 3Form backsplash is madeof recycled water bottles and makes a shelf for soaps and shampoo.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-85994698300502766982007-02-25T22:20:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:22:07.940-08:00Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-47878355636334126042007-02-25T22:18:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:08.152-08:00the exterior envelope of the house is complete. now we focuson interior details and the solar energy packageTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-12371737408149595772007-02-25T22:16:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:08.316-08:00white polygal cladding is attached to the mechanical closet and the fireplace closetTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-71118051166617439392007-02-17T23:54:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:08.472-08:00Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-81650945606119021872007-02-17T11:43:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:22:08.678-08:00cladding is being installed this weekend. a small mock-up of the plastic polygal sheathing is being tested for appearance on the outdoor fireplace wall.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-1005761745963110242007-02-17T11:43:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:22:08.835-08:00this view shows the master bedroom closet cabinets in the foreground and the guest bedroom/bathroom cabinets in the distance. glass storefront doors will be installed between the rooms once the cabinets are completed.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-17034211193315685522007-02-17T11:42:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:22:09.047-08:00this view shows the back of the guest bedroom cabinets and the plumbing chase in the bathroom. the plumbing will be covered by an orange 3Form wainscotting piece (which will also form a small shelf) above which will be a mirror that continues to the ceiling and covers the cabinets "wall to wall"Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-61248503426158590362007-02-17T11:42:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:22:09.431-08:00the flat pak cabinets are assembled in place and connected together to create privacy "walls" between the bedrooms and the bathroomTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-58365185196009841102007-02-17T11:41:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:22:09.602-08:00Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-27108100844961955652007-02-17T11:41:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:22:09.911-08:00the view through the entry court and living roomTaalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-30376643932498848802007-02-17T11:40:00.002-08:002008-12-11T17:22:10.119-08:00the entry court and kitchen. visible on the floor ofthe kitchen are stacks of the flat pak cabinets for thebedrooms.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-35162714024613036362007-02-17T11:40:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:22:10.378-08:00the reflection and transparency create interesting combinations in different lighting conditions.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-32765254351653928512007-02-17T11:39:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:10.926-08:00this image shows the glass wall in front of the living room. temporary metal clips are visible in each silicone joint.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-14001448366444961602007-02-11T17:49:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:11.054-08:00the glazing crew installs the cap piece on the aluminum header that holds the glass in place.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-50843546341308323312007-02-11T17:48:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:11.302-08:00the glazing crew installs all the fixed panels. they will be butt glazed which means that there is no aluminum frame between panels -- only a thin line of black silicone.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-43973051257534962032007-02-11T17:47:00.001-08:002008-12-11T17:22:11.720-08:00this picture shows the fixed glass sill at the slab with the flashing piece and the aluminum angle jamb which is co-fabbed onto our customized sliding glass door jamb in the factory.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-10461724117992538702007-02-11T17:46:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:11.888-08:00The fixed glass system track fits into our structural aluminum system to make a better water and wind barrier while also dictating to the installers precisely where the glass wall is to be placed.Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178813.post-84231298994056611392007-02-11T17:45:00.000-08:002008-12-11T17:22:12.395-08:00the glass installation begins! our glass storefront manufacturing partner has prefabricated all the parts of the glass enclosure system and delivered it to the site. the local glazing company installs the parts in rapid succession strictly on an hourly basis. the installation time is relatively short because nearly everything is pre-cut for easy placement. in this picture the sliding glass door Taalman Koch Architecturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02629707285234914900noreply@blogger.com