art and science intertwined
A residence designed for a couple with varied interests. This home is a modern stand-out in a neighborhood of traditional style bordering a small, private lake. Conceived to support their eclectic interests and informal gatherings. Some evenings, there is a brass quintet rehearsing, while others there is a quiet dinner party. The couple’s intellectual thirsts are supported by a personal office, a private study, and a library, containing forty-thousand volumes. A small potting room integrated and hidden within the core of the home satisfies container gardening pursuits.
Carefully positioned for the natural views and sloping topography, the home gracefully blends the indoors and out. Custom glass walls blur this line as well. The couple’s passion for Japanese style leads to the application of a Genkahn or lowered entry-level. This signals the transition between inside and out. The hard floor surface is where guests are invited to remove their shoes and ascend a single, graceful step into the home. Accessibility is a growing concern. So, to resolve this conflict of steps, we created visually contrasting ramps or bridges to make the transitions.
Japanese influenced design elements are a strong theme. Details like a Genkan, a lowered entry area, identify transitions to the exterior. “Art and Science Intertwined” has a clean and uncluttered living experience. Distinctive and durable surfaces ensure longevity. Design team of Ross Architecture and Mark Eric Benner – Architects collaborated in the home’s creation. This home was designed for a private client in Burr Ridge, Illinois.
home features
- Sustainable reclaimed brick
- Poplar bark siding
- Roof mounted solar PV array & solar heat
- Oversize sliding glass doors
- Custom casework throughout
- Elevator
- Integrated exterior patio and landscape
- Exterior lighting