Asian Cottage

This was more than a remodel—it was a total transformation. Inspired by the owner’s vision, we took it from ordinary to exceptional. With a lot of creative thinking and drawing on our expertise, we clarified the owner’s wish list and found ways to craft a serene, Zen-like living space within her budget. As we often do, CBD found local resources for many of the special details that achieve the Asian aesthetic. Shoji screens allow the homeowner to set off or enlarge rooms with a simple draw of screens. A moon gate serves as a distinct boundary between driveway and home. A bamboo planter adorns the shower. Zero VOC finishes, wool carpeting, bamboo flooring, high-efficiency water heating, natural lighting and Energy Star appliances support healthy indoor air quality, energy savings, comfort and smart use of natural resources.

Project:
Asian Cottage
Building Design:
Tobin Dougherty, Architect
Photographer:
Rick Pharaoh

Rob Nicely

President & Partner

Rob studied art at the University of California, Davis and has been in the construction industry since 1980. His rare combination of technical expertise and artistic sensibility enables him to provide a unique and exceptional experience for clients. As president, Rob leads by example. He is dedicated to the highest standards of quality and customer service, and to using the latest techniques and technologies to create environmentally mindful homes.
Rob is a Certified Green Building Professional (Build It Green) and Certified Passive House Consultant (Passive House Institute). He has served on the Passive House California board of directors since January 2018. Over the years Rob has garnered several accreditations. He participates in a variety of advocacy efforts, all focused on improving the quality of homes that Carmel Building & Design produces and increasing the ecological sustainability of the building industry in general. In his leisure time, Rob enjoys sculpting and painting.