"Looking at some of the new home’s features on the blueprints, it is apparent how much thought, planning, and dedication went into the home’s design.

"To be as energy efficient as possible, this home has been designed according to passive and active solar design principles, including southerly exposures, natural ventilation, and generous overhangs that shield the high-performance glass windows and sliding doors," Olson explained as she pointed at different sections of the blueprints. "Additionally, the whole property—heating, hot water, electrical, and pool systems—will be powered by solar. All of this combined with the radiant-heated polished concrete floors will help maintain a pleasant interior year round. I believe in radiant heat. It’s a cleaner, germ-free, noiseless, and cost-effective way to heat your home, plus it’s nice to walk on warm floors. My standard poodle, Kodo, loves it, too. 

"A critical part of designing this green home was finding the right architect. This proved to be a difficult and time-consuming task, but the diligent search paid off when Olson found San Francisco architect, Mark Macy.

"It took me five or six years to find my architect, but when Mark came into my life, he and I were quickly on the same page," Olson said. "For example, a key goal in creating this home was to create a feeling of flexibility and openness, allowing for strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces. We used sliding pocket doors that disappear entirely into adjacent walls to create the effect of a freestanding outdoor pavilion in the living/dining room and pool house.

With the help and guidance of a capable architect, Sue Olson was able to create plans for a brand-new home based on the principles of design that characterize her unique style. With so many years in the design business, Olson has developed a very distinct style focused mainly on the proper use of flow and open space. >>