Viking Residence

While their hectic work environments surround them with cold contemporary vocabulary of office-life, we wanted to create spaces that reference the clients’ passion for antiquing, fun patterns, and the value of craftsmanship found in traditional decor. We sought to balance their appreciation for vintage aesthetics with the demands for resilience and energy efficiency through distinctive textures, furniture-quality cabinetry, antique brass fixtures with high performance walls, windows, and building systems.  Functionality is paramount as the mudroom includes a counter for Amazon returns and the husband has a privacy-focused office nook. The wife’s mother couldn’t visit their previous home, so in response we created a stylish wheelchair accessible bedroom suite. On the more playful side, the home features two secret doors: one providing discreet access to the primary closet, facilitating early gym visits without disturbance, and another concealing a beverage bar under the stairs. In an effort to block the prototypical back fence, droopy power lines, and nosy 2-story neighbor, we designed a charming cottage as a bookend to the property, concealing pool equipment and echoing the main house’s style.  I believe the inclusion of this home on the AIA Tour alongside the usual contemporary homes will remind our constituents that quality architecture is not required to be zippy, sterile, and provocative. Perhaps more often than not, architecture of the home ought to be cozy, comfy, human-size, and give room for our contemporary lives to coexist with classic design and style. We believe this home will do just that.