Main house "Commons" in 3D

Hi all! While this may not be final, attached are two views of the Main House Commons area. We consider the Commons to be the kitchen, dining and living areas on the first floor of the "big" house. We plan to use IKEA cabinets because (a) we really like them and (b) it will save us a bundle over custom cabinets (and we can apply the savings to photo-voltaic panels!). Countertops will be concrete and done by a very talented ABQ man named Joseph. Floors will be stained concrete also because of the economy as well as to provide mass to collect and store the solar energy gained through the south windows. We like how Leslie (architect) has lowered the kitchen ceiling somewhat to give a cozier and more intimate feel. We also really like the way she sunk the stove and range hood in a little recessed arch in the kitchen. And the open stairs really appeal to us too.


We are using Google SketchUp to view these designs. It's a free application from Google and allows you to move around in 3D looking at every nook and cranny. Very cool! And so helpful when you are designing a home from a distance.

We should have 3D designs for the first floor of the Casita soon. Stay tuned!