38-44 Granite St, Fitchburg Massachusetts, USA

This single-family residence was designed in response to both the unique zoning constraints of the site and the specific lifestyle needs of the clients — a couple seeking to rebuild on a lot formerly occupied by a three-family home destroyed by fire. Due to a zoning reclassification, the City of Fitchburg now permits only a single-family structure to be constructed on the property.

One of the main design challenges was a diagonal zoning setback line on one side of the lot, which required creative massing and footprint adjustments. As a result, the layout is composed of subtle volumetric shifts that respect the legal buildable envelope while optimizing interior functionality. The ground floor houses all social and service areas, carefully integrated to promote fluid movement between the kitchen, dining, and living areas. The private bedrooms and bathrooms are located on the second floor, providing privacy and acoustic separation.

A key request from the clients was to include a music room and a home office, both spatially independent from the main house. These were designed as semi-detached, separated spaces, allowing for work and music practice with minimal disturbance to daily life.

The garage remains open, by the client’s preference, but is equipped with infrastructure for two EV charging stations, ensuring long-term flexibility and alignment with sustainable mobility trends.

The heart of the project — and a cherished dream of the client — is the rear deck, seamlessly connected to the kitchen. This outdoor space is envisioned as an extension of the culinary experience, allowing the couple to cook indoors while grilling outdoors during the summer months. It embodies the spirit of social living and seasonal enjoyment.

Altogether, the project balances zoning restrictions, site geometry, and personal aspirations to deliver a thoughtful and context-sensitive residential design.

[Author, 2025, Fitchburg – MA – US]