Too cold in winter and too warm in summer, this sunroom was virtually unused by the owners except for storage. Thermal comfort became the primary challenge in transforming the space into a recreation room for a growing family. Western sloped glazing at the roof was removed to prevent unwanted solar gain. A new wood ceiling lends a warm feeling and harmonizes with the existing wood frame structure. The eastern slope of the roof, meanwhile, remains as glass to maintain natural light throughout. New radiant heat tubing in a new gypcrete topping slab provides heat to the space in winter. In summer, new solar powered exhaust fans installed near the ridge of the existing gable roof allow warm air to rise and vent to the outside.
The bi-level space includes a family room below and game room on a raised platform above. A gear room is also provided for storage of equipment including snowboards, kayak, and bicycles. Partial height walls at the new game room were removed for a more spacious feel. The wall to the existing adjacent dining room was also eliminated, creating a seamless transition from the remodel to the existing home. New metal railings at the game room and existing basement stair maintain openness and add a modern touch.
