The Builder's Eye in Action
A courtyard home of this scale concentrates structural, mechanical, and waterproofing challenges
into a tight footprint. Our Builder's Eye methodology addressed each one during design — not
during construction.
Structural Complexity: The U-shaped plan with floor-to-ceiling glass on the
courtyard side required a continuous steel moment frame system. We specified connection details,
column sizes, and beam-to-slab interfaces during Design Development, allowing the structural
fabricator to begin shop drawings concurrently with permitting.
Pool Integration: Coordinating a structural pool shell with the home's
foundation and drainage systems is where many courtyard projects encounter problems. We worked
with the pool engineer during schematic design to establish finish floor relationships,
equipment pad locations, and plumbing penetration points — preventing the retrofit nightmares
that plague projects where pool design happens after the house is framed.
Waterproofing Strategy: With habitable space on three sides of a pool,
waterproofing is not an afterthought. We specified a comprehensive below-grade waterproofing
system, positive drainage details at every pool deck-to-building junction, and redundant drain
paths — fully documented in construction drawings. The builder reported zero water intrusion
issues during the warranty period.
HVAC Zoning: Three wings with dramatically different glass exposure required a
carefully zoned mechanical system. We planned five independently controlled zones with dedicated
supply runs, ensuring comfort in the glass-heavy great room without overcooling the more
enclosed primary suite.
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