Alta View Residence

Alta View was built upon a narrow hillside lot in the heart of Salem, Oregon. The home was designed for cost-effectiveness construction at less than $180 per square foot. Energy-efficient design and construction, coupled with a 10 kW solar-electric system, has enabled the owners to generate more electricity for six months of the year than they consume.

The LEED Platinum-Certified home was designed to enable the owners to thrive-in-place as their forever home. The home’s construction exceeded structural, energy, fire, and accessibility codes to provide the owners with the comfort of a resilient structure to withstand heavy winds, rains, fires, earthquakes, and physical disabilities that may accompany aging. Fireproof siding was used for the roof, exterior walls and soffits. Redundant drainage systems were utilized to prevent slippage during heavy rains. The main level floor serves the couple’s daily needs: garage, entry, living, dining, kitchen, master bedroom and bathroom, and laundry. The lower level was designed for two of their children and a home office for the husband. The upper floor is an art studio for the wife. Covered outdoor decks on each level facilitate views.