A successful chiropractic doctor and his wife, a realtor, relocated from California to Boise, purchasing real estate with an eye toward future design potential. They settled into a ranch-style home adjacent to three properties they had acquired, originally zoned R1-C with a 40-foot height limit. They had the former Banbury home, but their collection of toys required more land. Seeking expertise on development possibilities, they engaged J S D A Inc.
The site, overlooking a future park with unobstructed foothill views, had both advantages and constraints: a privacy berme and fencing, above-ground utility lines, and a high-traffic intersection. The husband sought to maximize value, while the wife envisioned a custom home surpassing their previous residence—golf course adjacent, expansive indoor-outdoor living, and ample garage space. They also required accommodation for a 60’ RV, additional recreational vehicles, and a separate office space.
An initial landscape study explored six zero-lot-line residences, but concerns over density and noise redirected the vision. Programming meetings clarified their goals: a primary home with a guest suite, two rental properties, and an additional lot for future development. The site’s multiple access points dictated a flexible plan, balancing city zoning constraints with the owners’ evolving preferences. The three lot site was a combination of housing structures and densities, offering future sales potential to be considered by the owners.
The couple had differing architectural styles—his preference for modern minimalism contrasted with her traditional affinities. A design solution emerged: a long, low, modern structure with ribboned glass panels, integrating interior and exterior spaces. The flat roof featured solar panels, rainwater collection, and sustainable systems. The site plan preserved the existing ranch house as vehicle storage, office space, and a potential rental unit, ensuring continuity in the compound’s function.
Interior spaces were crafted to support large family gatherings. A 7,200-square-foot main house featured a central open-plan living area, a round dining table for 14, and a chef’s kitchen with a 680-square-foot butler’s pantry. A guest suite with independent exterior access provided for future caretaking needs. Outdoor spaces incorporated a shaded pergola, built-in BBQ, and a putting green—a nod to the wife’s passion for golf.
Traffic noise dictated an orientation shift, positioning outdoor living spaces away from the intersection. A multi-car garage and a designated RV access point were strategically placed. Landscaping buffered sound while enhancing privacy. Parking solutions accommodated recreational vehicles, aligning with the couple’s active lifestyle.
Despite the thorough planning, the project was put on hold. The wife, drawn to a newly listed home near her preferred golf course, shifted priorities. Though yet unbuilt, the project remains a strong example of our firm’s strategic planning, architectural vision, and adaptability in complex residential design, particularly creating a design aesthetic that has great simplicity to accomplish budget goals while also possessing a distinctive modern architectural character.
