Tyler Engle Architects was design modular house design with a tight budget titled Trestle House. Respect for the land and a light touch on the raw earth were pivotal to the design of this 2200 SF house which was held to the street edge to maintain the woods. Trestle House is one of those houses that has a very tight budget and very difficult construction conditions.

This house located on a steeply slopping sight so innovative structural systems and modular construction were used. Auguer cast piles and a steel trestle created a building platform at half the cost of a traditional foundation and retaining walls. Inspired by the Japanese Tatami mat and constructed like a prefab “kit of parts,” a 12’ x 16’ grid with 4’ cantilevered side bays provided for an economical structural span of less than 14’ and standard lumber modules (4’ x 8’ sheet of plywood), also reducing waste. Clearstory windows flood the public spaces with daylight precluding the need for artificial light during the day. This elevated house provides a bright interior privatized from the street, with beucolic views to the preserved woods beyond.