The land is steep under those Oaks on the hillside and our tree house and its twenty-two steps from street level to kitchen kept reminding us of our age. Leaving our home of more than 25 years just wasn’t in the cards, so we decided to make it possible to retire in place.

First, the steps had to go, and while we were at it, the kitchen remodel we never did should become a reality. Years of dreaming of an energy efficient  house making use of modern technology for convenience and to reduce our energy footprint  finally led to action. Where practical we chose materials, fixtures and appliances to meet those goals.

The first part of the journey is complete. The photos provide a record of the transformation of the kitchen, living room, and dining room.

Next up: Solar installation and new energy efficiencies in heating, cooling, and hot water appliances.