The Sunken Patio
In a previous renovation, we had put in a secondary dwelling in the basement. This apartment shared the back door staircase as an entrance, however when we decided to move the staircase we had to a) address how to create a new entrance to the apartment and b) as it is now occupied by a family member rather than short term rentals, we wanted to create more opportunities for privacy. Our brilliant architect Lara suggested the sunken patio which addressed both issues. Creating a mini extension adds both the staircase as well as a massive ‘light box’, allowing natural light to flood into this basement apartment.
There are two videos on Instagram showing how this was built: First then Second.
This tiny extension was an opportunity to use insulated concrete forms (ICF) which I had not worked with before. It was also very interesting watching how the pit was dug out, and how much insulation Lara had specified both under the extension and on top of the insulated forms.
The retaining wall was also a fascinating process to watch. As each layer of brick went up, a retaining mesh was laid out 2 feet from the bricks and then secured with stone. Each course of stone also steps back a few centimeters, to stop it being pressured to fall inwards. This outdoor space is minimal, easy to maintain, and requires only a few steps to gain fresh air and sunlight. It is not a zero-threshold solution, but a minimal amount of exercise is desired, and the entrance is wide enough that if a lift is needed in the future it can be accommodated. We plan on using heated stair mats for easy exterior maintenance in the winter, removable when not required.