Fort Frances Residence This original 4 bedroom, "4 level-split"  home was designed and built in 1994.  A challenge in designing this home, was to disguise the typical appearance of a split-level, while keeping the public areas on the main floor.  Keeping the home as close to walk-out level as possible - to utilize the exterior living space while maintaining an 8' height ceiling in the basement, was a main criteria for the home owners.  A lesson learned in construction came when this home's foundation could not be as low as planned, due to the depth of the main sewer lines. Concerns over the basement level appearing dark and "basement-like", three sections of 4' high windows were designed on the homes sides and back of this space using deep window wells. The result of this is amazing, bringing in much light and disquising the "basement appearance", making this area of the home just as appealing and useful as any other level.   The use of tall windows was welcomed as a unique aspect by the homeowner, utilizing true double-hung windows (especially) on the second floor is a real asset for people who like to have windows open like this homeowner does.  True double hung windows allow the top window to open downward, this adds a safety feature preventing young children from falling through the screen.    Front Left Right Back

"In all my years of designing homes, I find there is always some sort of dilemma that transpires.  But thanks to the great attitudes, skill and attention of the builder, his crew and the sub-trades*, this is the first home I've worked on that went basically without a hitch!  Specifying the builder and some of the sub-trades myself made all the difference in the world!" - Tonia Dolph/Designer  * [C.J. Contracting (Claude Jodoin, Todd Yatchuk, Jon Dupuis), Larry Falk Carpentry,  M.L. Caron Electric, Bob Coish Flooring Installations ,Tyrvainen Masonry, Dennis Robinson Ltd. Excavating, ]

Space Planning this project One of the design parameters addressed in designing the bathroom floor plan of  this home was to create a large "family style" bathroom to accommodate the uses for small children who require assistance in daily tasks. Creating separate zones for the adults, yet keeping the bathroom access as an en-suite bath lead to the placement of the pocket door from the master bedroom.  This not only saved money on additional fixtures and plumbing costs, it expanded the standard main bathroom to a luxurious size, increasing the value of this home.  Keeping in mind that the owner's desired a whirlpool tub, suggesting a 6' tub was never a regret for the homeowner.   Without expanding the space further to accommodate a separate shower, a tiled shower was incorporated within the bathing area.  Bringing the ceiling down within the tub area, tiling the ceiling and adding a recessed shower approved light fixture brightened the shower alcove.  Wiring the light fixture on a separate switch makes this a wonderful night light.   Main Floor