no gutters? picture windows a bit boring.

Yes there will be gutters.

Here’s the photoshop pic

Or...

That’s a tear down, not an addition. More cost effective and a far better result.

Here's what the buyers of a neighbor's house did.

I don't think it was terribly successful but it's far better than what is being proposed for your house.

If that's the best your architect can come up with, maybe it's time to find another architect? What he did reminds me of 70's homes built in Queens NY.

I think the front of your house is really cute as is. Can you do an addition off the back and leave the front as is? What is the goal of the addition?

The house is actually about 2000 sq ft as is, and a fully remodeled interior. The goal is more so to add some height because the neighbor houses on both sides tower over it. Also to add a wanted open loft area.

How many square feet of living space are you adding?

Stacking two giant picture windows on top of each other is a poor first effort. Will this be a 2 family house?

About 600 of floor space and an open area at the front of the house (vaulted 16’ ceiling)

That seems like a lot of work and expense for that much added space. What will the loft area be used for?

i agree with Cpartist that it’s time to find another architect. You have a cute house and the plans you’ve been given are ruining that.

Have you discussed how much of the already remodeled 1st floor will need to be redone for this addition (if I’m reading your post right thatnthe house has already been remodeled)

Here are some decent examples. Honestly, if you are dissatisfied with your architect, find another one, What about ARG on here?

I'm still trying to figure out how the neighbors got their hoses that high, must be some pretty good water pressure.

Mark you kill me.

Tell your architect to show some creativity.

If he had some he would have already shown it.

That he hasn't shown any is evidence of the lack thereof.

Res, baby, res.

You mention that the interior is fully remodeled. Are you trying to 'save' any or all of that remodeled space while adding a second floor and the necessary staircase? I think that could compromise your plans quite a bit.

Actually, I agree with cpartist. My neighborhood is dominated by ranch homes. They are quite sought after by those looking for one level set-ups. Plus, I work in healthcare and lots of my patients tell me they wish they could find a ranch home.

Mark nailed it! The proposed design for a second story addition simply isn't creative or interesting. It's simply shelter to keep the rain out.

IMO love that you don’t match every house in the area and please do not do that addition for really no gai at all. Go on a holiday with the money it will be a much better choice. You have a very nice looking house don’t ruin it.

How about a picture with the neighboring houses for us to see how yours relates to them