Project: Bernard Residence
Client: Mr. & Mrs. Matt Bernard
Location: Minden, Nevada
Description:
Site: The Bernard residence consists of a 3,400-square-foot, three-bedroom ranch-style new construction in downtown Minden.
Challenge: The owner’s plans called for a large great room, which would be exposed to the valley’s high winds. In addition, the property was located in a flood plain, which required that we followed specific guidelines for the sensitive area. We were also asked to adhere to a strict budget and coordinate directly with a contractor during the design phase. The Bernards engaged R.O. Anderson to prepare the structural design, including evaluating gravity load conditions and a relatively complex lateral design due to the large expanses of glass the owner wanted to use to maximize views.
Solution: Problem-solving with the contractor throughout construction, we helped mitigate the impacts of the wind exposure by using a modified moment frame, a stiff structural load-resisting element. To conform to the budget, we used wood construction, which is less expensive and easier to work with than steel. Our team also met regulations for new construction in a flood plain by designing the floor height 12 inches above the determined water surface elevation.