Civil Services

The goal

This inwardly focused box was specifically organized to frame views west to the lake and hills, while using high north and south windows to admit natural light but maintain privacy and solitude from adjacent properties

The exterior of this 2834-square-foot glass, hemlock, and lightly burnished stucco residence is subtle and restrained, although its setting is dramatic. Windows in each room in the two-bedroom, three-bath house - as well as two large covered balconies - offer sweeping views of the landscape and contribute to a sense that the house is floating above the cove and water. A window box juts off the dining area, a place for reading and reflection. It is a deliberate agenda that encourages a feeling that the stylishly decorated house is aloft in its own world, populated by the homeowner's art set against the backdrop of warm neutral colors. An intricate and dynamic series of interior spaces flows easily within the open-plan layout of public spaces, which includes a kitchen, a sunken living room, and a wet bar. An airy suspended steel staircase ascends to the private level and bedrooms above. Back-painted glass, enameled wood paneling, and marble surfaces are a sleek contrast to softer natural materials such as hemlock ceilings and wide white oak flooring.


Civil Services

There are two main types of employers in this sector:

1. New home builders and renovation contractors hire tradespeople on staff, particularly carpenters, framers and site supervisors.

2. Trade contractors – independent companies that specialize, for example, plumbing contractors or heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) contractors – range from small 2-3 person companies to larger ones with dozens of employees.


Civil Services

Residential Construction

Trade contractors work on contracts for new home builders and renovators on specified projects, and they also offer services directly to the public. Many companies are owned and operated by tradespeople who started out with other firms and then set up their own business. The value of residential construction and renovation work has increased more than 40% over the last 15 years and accounts for almost 50% of total construction industry employment. Just think of the opportunity!