Kitset Upset

Architectural Renovation for a Smarter Rural Lifestyle

This early 2000s kitset home sits on a beautiful rural site—but its original layout, proportions, and thermal performance haven’t aged well. Designed with minimum-sized rooms and limited connection to the outdoors, the home no longer suits the needs of its owners—especially as both now work from home.

Fixing the problems

Upstairs, overheating is a major problem in summer. The existing window placements miss out on expansive views to the surrounding farmland and distant mountain ranges. And with guests arriving directly into the lounge space, the home lacks a defined sense of entry or flow.

This architectural renovation rethinks the layout from the ground up. One key move was redesigning the garage to properly accommodate larger rural vehicles—an everyday need that had been overlooked. A new formal entry point creates privacy and spatial separation, while large-format windows and doors were repositioned to frame the best views and invite natural light and landscape into the living spaces.

Simplicity and solar performance drove every design decision. Clean, energy-efficient roof forms support solar generation, while a strong emphasis on passive design ensures future comfort.

Project Snapshot:
– Rural renovation focused on energy efficiency and comfort
– Improved layout with better zoning and entry sequence
– Solar-ready roof design with passive performance in mind
– Reoriented spaces to capture views and cross-ventilation

The project is currently on hold while the clients revisit their budget—but the concept remains a strong example of how architectural renovation can dramatically improve livability, thermal comfort, and connection to place.

Planning a renovation that respects the fixes the problems of the past and embraces oppertunities into the future?

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