Pub. 5 2017 Directory

20 THE MONTANA ARCHITECT | 2017 | www.aia-mt.org Northside Townhomes MMW Architects Merit Design Award T hese modern townhomes are located on a unique infill site in Missoula’s mixed-use Northside Neighborhood. The project takes scale cues from the community brewery and other railroad era structures down the street. By increasing the site density in a sensitive and appealing way, the project promotes urban sustainabil- ity principles of walkability, public transportation access, and reduced infrastructure and sprawl. The site is in close proximity to many local business and bus stops. Additionally, a pedestrian bridge that crosses the railroad tracks to downtown is across the street. Prior to construction, the site was cleaned up and remediated to remove hazardous materials and debris from a previous structure fire. Now, native, low-water plantings and decomposed granite reduce water use as well as site runoff. Best of all, the occupants have a lowmaintenance, beautiful landscaping to enjoy. Every space was carefully considered in order to give the occupants a home that feels much bigger than its small square footage suggests. The living spaces are set a floor above garage, utility, and entry space. This configura- tion allows for large windows as well as privacy from the street through a change in elevation. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide a connection to the outdoors and plenty of natural daylight. Shading devices were placed on southern windows to reduce overheating in summer while providing solar gain during the winter months. Locally reclaimed wood floors from the recently deconstructed Salvation Army building provide a warm, homey character and contrast with the clean lines of the design.