This is an update to our progress with the Formworks home in downtown Durango. See the original “Breaking Ground” post here.
Probably the biggest point of differentiation for Formworks homes is the extreme energy efficiency. Since up to 80% of the homes are covered with earth or backing into hillsides, they are superlative moderators of heat and cold. Even in its unfinished stage, the temperature is remarkably stable. But walking through the home, the most striking element is that every single point has some architectural interest.
With curved walls and ceilings meeting straight interior walls, and gracefully curving staircases climbing the perimeter of the dome, this Formworks home is a detail-oriented person’s dream…even if it may be a drywaller’s most creative challenge beforehand.
Below are a few photos of the progress to date. Our apologies for the grainy quality on many. The drywalling team was working hard, making it a dusty photo shoot.
The entry stairs lead up to an open living area with a ton of eastern light
By virtue of the design and intent of the home, only one aspect ~ eastern in this case ~ has windows. Even still, it’s remarkably bright for the main living space, kitchen and bedrooms. The curvature of the west, south and north walls will create some gorgeous lighting opportunities in the darker areas of the home.
This photo was shot into the sun, so it doesn't do justice to the morning light that streams in the main living area
The kitchen has an open floor plan to the living room, with great views to Eastern Durango. The kitchen is also open to the upstairs (third level).
The kitchen is truly and literally at the center of this home.
As a sucker for a curved staircase, I find it’s not always easy to design one into a contemporary home in a way that feels organic and neither strained, nor too opulent. The curved walls of the Formworks make a curved staircase a natural, and it’s executed beautifully by the team.
Curved staircase from the top floor to the main living space
And finally, here are two examples of how the curved elements begin to fit seamlessly with the more angular design features.
A less pronounced curve produces a cozy feel and architectural interest
Areas where the more pronounced arcs meet angular elements provide for creative use of space.
The niche created by the arc of the ceiling meeting the angular build of a closet creates a perfect kid's nook, art display or storage area.
This is an intriguing and challenging project, upon which we’re working closely with the owner of Formworks (who is acting as general). It’s particularly interesting to me because it pushes to a far end of the spectrum of energy efficient methods. Never hesitate to give me a call if I can answer any questions you may have about this home, or homes that lie on any point on the spectrum of “green” building.
Thanks!
Jared
970.903.9577
