Northfield Green Home  |  Northfield

A devastating flood in 2008 essentially destroyed a mid-century modern home.  The original home is located in a flood plain, designated after the original home was built. To be able to build a new home back, the house had to be raised above the flood plain level, without a basement. A 'flow through' foundation was used, one that allows water to travel under the highly insulated, raised first floor structure. 

In lieu of the previous home's 1950's ranch aesthetic, the new design was to be a Cape Cod. The only items that survived the flood were the swimming pool and a two story addition that was built to flood plain standards.

Key design elements include the use of Harmon pivot hinged doors which, when open give the first floor a completely open feel, but when closed acoustically separate the various rooms, and the second floor library, which features an arched ceiling that aligns with the prominent circle top window that is located over the front entry. A generous screened porch provides the perfect transition from the pool and yard back into the house.


  • Nine panel solar thermal system - providing space heat in the winter and pool heating in the summer

    Reused key plumbing fixtures and lighting fixture from the existing home

    High efficiency radiant floor system on first floor

    Existing foundation reused for the new design

    Natural daylighting and ventilation throughout

    Natural ventilation tower at second floor

    Closed cell foam perimeter insulation

    Cement fiberboard siding

    Energy Star appliances

    Whole house fan


Kitchen and Den Photos by ©2017 Wayne Cable

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