An age-old architectural question is determining a technique to add to a structure in an eloquent way that works with the existing structure. There is no single correct answer, but we believe the debate is constant yet necessary. This client commissioned us for a modern expression that fits our sensibilities – a perfect match.
Our initial planning study uncovered the tight constraints within the zoning setbacks that limited our initial expansion concept. The owner decided they had no desire to seek a variance from the local borough. Fortunately, this caused us to reinvestigate the program, which yielded a richer, more functional, and economical solution after a second look. Within these imaginary boundaries, the result is restrained but tailored. We also respected the a-b-a pattern of the existing, traditional format.
We believe with the owner that the modern bookends magnify the original 1920s home by contrast, yet the diagram remains classical. The new living room addition on the North replaces an unused open porch. In contrast, a renovated portion of the existing house (within an earlier insensitive addition) lends a unique appearance with its reconfigured layout. It serves as a bulk of the home’s functional program. With the overdue maintenance included in the project, this is like a brand-new home.
Material selections developed over time but were influenced by the owner directing the architect to directly order the Zola (ThermoClad VL triple glazed II, Quadrat, F9 titanium) windows. This decision locked in a charcoal window color (RAL 7016) which became the chief influence in the remaining color decisions, such as the brick and interior paint color. The black and white contrast sets up a rule which found relief in the medium tone of the wood flooring and wood treatment to the stairs.
Construction was completed in the late summer of 2020.
Project Type: Single Family House – Renovations and Additions
Project Size: Renovations approximately 2,700 square feet, Additions 587 square feet Living Room, 315 square feet Family Room
Completion: 2020
General Contractor: Century Interiors Inc.
Structural Engineering Consultant: Anderson Structural Inc.
Photography: SkySight Photography
Custom Steel Stair: Standard & Custom
Publications:
Metal Architecture – April 2022, “Metal Modernizes Addition”
Metal Construction News – August 2022, “Project Focus”
Awards:
2022 Master Design Awards: Whole House More Than $700,000 — HONORABLE MENTION