Built in the late sixties as a “contemporary” residence, the house is situated on the northern slope of a prominent ridge and commands a 25 mile view on a clear day. It was to be a weekend residence that would eventually become full time for a businessman, and amateur sculptor from New York City. Our firm was directed to maintain the locations of the rooms but create “an interesting flow of space throughout the house” as well as more space where it was required. Taking advantage of the spectacular view was a prime requirement.

Early in the construction phase it became evident that the house would need a gut renovation. The structural, electrical and plumbing systems of the house all required major overhauls. In various places, the integrity of the structure was so compromised that at one point, serious consideration was given to a demolition option.

In replacing the existing insulation and wall cladding systems, "Green" materials were used to increase the thermal efficiency and reduce maintenance costs over the life of the building. "Icynene" foam insulation replaced the existing fiberglass batts in reinforced and substantially thickened walls and "Hardiplank" concrete sheets and lattice were used to clad the exterior.

In the end the solution to meeting the various functional requirements and, at the same time providing a visual unity, lay in “pushing” and “pulling” on sections of existing walls, cutting new openings and adding structural elements that also function as spatially defining elements.

The entry side of the exterior posed another problem. It was unattractive, and there was no spatial hierarchy in the entrance processional. The solution was to build a wall to “hide” this elevation and also support the new Tower Room built on top of the roof. This wall also helps to create a spatial sequence as one enters the house. The main entrance is through the stair opening, through to the Foyer. In the Winter, guests are encouraged to enter through the air lock provided by the Mud Room.

A balance of natural light throughout the house was accomplished by a series of openings in interior walls along with careful placement of a few additional windows in exterior walls. The result is a constantly changing quality of light throughout the day as well as throughout the seasons.

"When I go out at night I leave the tower room lights on so when I come back home I can see the house from across the valley. The stepped windows make an interesting pattern and the tower is like a beacon that welcomes me home. I love the way it looks when I drive up to the house; it looks sculptural."
-Michael Nachman