44SR Renovation

Project Details

Project Description

Like many historic houses constructed in the 20's and 30's, this Washington DC house was well constructed with a traditional vernacular and fit comfortably in this established NW neighborhood. The house changed little over time and did not meet the current owner’s desire for light filled and open spaces. The existing residence had a traditional layout with compartmentalized spaces, heavy trim and a dark palette of materials. A beautiful garden, developed over thirty years seemed isolated from the interior spaces. In this redesign, changes were implemented throughout the house, but the major revisions revolved around the family room, breakfast room and kitchen, located at the back of the house and adjacent to the carefully cultivated garden. From its conception, the design focused on infusing the spaces with light and creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces. The renovation process was primarily reductive; interior walls were removed, trim and moldings were eliminated and the mostly solid exterior wall obstructing views to the garden was replaced with floor to ceiling glass. A small steel and glass addition, encompassing 88 square feet enlarges the family room. Incorporation of the owner’s expansive art collection, including work by luminaries Helen Frankenthaler, Sam Gilliam, and George Condo was central to the redesign. Integration of the interior spaces and the garden was essential. In the redesign, interior materials are pared down to highlight the art. New stone flooring extending from the interiors onto adjacent terraces and into the garden enhances the integration of these spaces. Doors and windows fold open and create an open-air connection that reinforces this relationship. Ultimately, this project involves synthesizing art, light and landscape. The project incorporates a modern architectural language that coexists within a traditional house in an established neighborhood.