The Villa Renewed

Architects Challenge 2015 Showdown Winner

Architect Name: Mark Nelson

Firm: David Heide Design Studio

Location: Saint Paul, MN

This completely renovated duplex is located on historic Summit Avenue in Saint Paul, Minnesota—one of the country’s premier and best-preserved historic residential areas. Because of this, the builders had to meet strict requirements from the local Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) to maintain the home’s 1924 Mediterranean Revival style. After an on-site inspection showed that the windows were beyond repair, HPC determined that Marvin Wood Ultimate windows met the exacting federal standards and guidelines for preservation and rehabilitation. While the renovated house still retains its historic character and integrity, it also has 21st century technologies: new rainwater collection, geothermal systems, and a modern building envelope. Closed-cell spray foam insulation, and energy-efficient Marvin windows helped to complete the renovation along LEED silver guidelines.