DESIGN CONCEPT BRIEF:

The goal of the proposal was to find best affordable, structural and aesthetical solution for stairwell cover at the rear entrance to the residential basement to discard rain water, ice and snow and at the same time letting sun light penetrate into ...the house. Along with proposed options for stairwell cover, proposal presumes that there is a good grading around the stairwell preventing foundations flooding and damage. A negative grade sloping away from the house using clay soil up to the last few inches and covered with top soil helps to direct water towards the storm sewers or just from structure.

During work process on the proposal, main focus and concentration was challenge to find ideal form and shape for roof and enclosure to fully discard atmosphere storm water from stairwell and house exterior wall, and closely related to this issues application of modern, affordable construction materials which minimally impact natural and built environment, and at the same time providing most comfortable and aesthetically pleasant living for residents of the house. Client’s idea also was taken in consideration and developed to the presented extent.

Taking in consideration headroom requirements and necessity to provide sun light into the house, and air flow through stairwell structure, all proposed roof and enclosure structures are composed from two sections and alternative Option 3 composed from three sections with roofs at different levels providing light into bedroom and down stairwell.

Curved bent translucent roof proposed in Option 2, 3/alternative and 4 provides full discard of rain water, ice and snow, preserves stairwell from flooding, and provides sun light into the house. Cut off holes in side enclosures proposed in Option 3/alternative and Option 4 provide air flow through structure.

One slope roof proposed in Option 1 and Option 1/alternative provides full discard of rain water, ice and snow preserving stairwell from flooding, and at the same time lets sun light penetrate into the house. Cut off holes in side enclosures provide air flow through structure.

Proposed construction materials for all design options:
Polycarbonate (plastic glass) translucent sheets;
Metal or wooden frame system with 4” X 4” posts;
Polycarbonate and aluminum connection profiles and accessories.

All proposed design solutions solve problems of discarding storm water from stairwell and house exterior wall; provide sunlight into house and air flow through structure; at the same time aesthetically benefit adjacent house and site.