Modern House Designs

Cool glass extension gives traditional home a modern edge

2013-05-18T14:27:46Z

The Cosgriff House in Sydney, Australia designed by Christopher Polly Architect is contemporary, but not intimidating in its aesthetic, blending into the existing neighborhood while still standing out for all the right reasons. In order to maximize the usable parts of the existing house, minimize environmental impact and make efficient use of the budget, the architect reused the original building envelope and part of the interior. With tradition taking its spot at the front of the house, the back enjoys a totally modern extension featuring glass walls and opening to the garden.

]]>

The home's original brick exterior and conventional though charming white front porch welcomes residents and guests. Its small scale makes a subtle addition to the residential landscape. From the street, you'd never guess at what's behind the deceiving front facade.

At the rear, the towering addition adds an element of modern mystery that begs to be explored.

The glass addition, though small (measuring just 20m2) makes all the difference in this re-design. The glazed volume extends from ground to roof, flooding the entire house with bright natural light and lush, leafy vistas.

"An eccentric roof form extrapolates the original southern roof plane to mitigate adjacent impacts - lifting to light and tree views to the east, while also folding upwards for access to northern light and sky through a sole fire-rated window along the boundary."

A substantial living area takes shape below grade, but thanks to the sloped site, this lower level also enjoys a walkout to the private garden and alfresco lounging area out back.

Inside, the main living space enjoys privacy from the public, thanks to its "basement" positioning on its street side. But toward the back, the exposed wall of glass transforms this below-grade space into a bright, airy and inviting area for socializing or spending some solo time. Because this is technically a basement, windows are restricted to this rear wall, but due to its large scale, it provides ample natural light to illuminate this whole space.

This open concept living room, dining room and kitchen combo is the hub of the house, as is the case in most homes. The sliding glass wall invites interiors into the outdoors and vice versa.

A minimalist palette of white walls is a clean, crisp contrast to the polished concrete floors underfoot. Storage space tucked beneath the stairs is concealed behind simple cabinet doors. Artful lighting adds interest to this simple style.

The massive glazed wall features blinds to block out the light, heat and outside from interiors, or alternately, to let the outdoors in.

But with views like these, you'll never want to tune them out entirely. The open stairwell features a full-height ceiling and is pointed toward a floor-to-ceiling glass wall framing garden views.

Overhead, staggered suspended lights add illumination and an artistic element to this open void. Like glowing orbs, these ultra modern fixtures are an instant focal point, both from inside and out.

The folded ceiling gets playful with shape, shadow and light.

The upper level (keep in mind that this is actually the ground floor from the front of the house) is occupied by the private areas of the house - bedroom and bathroom, the epitome of serene spa-inspired style.

A skylight overhead is carved into the ceiling, its deep well amplifying the light pouring in.

The bathroom's brilliant blue floor and wall tiles echo the sky's hues peeking in overhead. A glass shower wall leaves sight lines open throughout, from the entrance to the window on the far wall.

Here are some diagrams illustrating the unusual layout of this interesting house plan.

The lower ground floor plan:

The ground floor:

And a section showcasing the slope:

Christopher Polly Architect
via Freshome
photo credit: Brett Boardman Photography

Shell shocked: Nautilus inspired concrete live and work home

2013-05-18T14:22:08Z

Washington-based architecture firm Calico Studio created this unusual studio space for a textile artist with an eye for fabulous functionality. According to the architects, "Most artists, if pressed, could produce their work in a bathroom, adapting to their means. Our client wanted a space that would 'call' her to create, while maintaining a connection to her family." Dubbed Nautilus Studio, the home is a reflection of nature's inspiration. Inside and out, the structure's organic lines and earthy details keep bringing us back to the spiraling interior of a nautilus shell. While you can get a peek inside through the glass panels along the front facade, interiors offer a whole different experience that is equally inspired, and inspiring. Check it out.

]]>

The curved roof of the house leads your eye down to the front facade, where windows and solid block walls alternate to provide the perfect balance of views and privacy. Set in a clearing among tall trees close to the existing main house, the studio was angled to make the most of the natural light reaching the site. The roof hangs over a small sitting area, providing a sheltered alfresco spot to reflect and take the outdoors in.

From the architects, "We find inspiration in nature and the people that surround us, the history of our environment. From these, we take note of the things that grab our imagination and touch us in unexpected ways."

AAC, aerated autoclave concrete, was chosen for the exterior of the house for its earthy properties, weighty look and feel, and its ability to age gracefully - like the ancient nautilus itself. "Our design works with color, texture, and pattern of the block to ground the building to the site and our artist to her studio," explain the architects.

Inside, the arching roof features exposed wood beams that echo the inner chambers of a nautilus shell - a theme that is also carried through to the shelves lining the walls.

We call this "organized chaos." The eclectic interior design of this work space blends pretty functional decor items with work tools and things, all topped by this crude pressed-wood ceiling arching overhead.

An industrial style ladder leads to the upper level loft area behind a steel cage. The loft seems to float across the center of the space, like a bridge connecting the front and the rear facades. The loft overlooks the live work spaces below on either side.

The cage is an understated, contemporary detail that delivers a safety enclosure while also maintaining open sight lines throughout the home.

Just overhead, the wood beams follow the line of the curved ceiling, bringing an organic edge to the room and enhancing its awesome sense of height and space.

The beams extend past the front facade and continue to the underside of the overhanging roof.

The volume itself also has an irregular shape that flares out at one end. At the front and rear of the space, outdoor living areas extend the home beyond its walls.

The volume is deceivingly spacious, packing lots of live and work space into one sweet package.

Calico Studio
via Freshome

Luxury Oceanfront Escape with private courtyard

2013-05-11T22:22:53Z

In designing this house at Bantry Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, SAOTA (Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects) had two main objectives: to create a house that showcased the stunning waterfront as a main feature of its design, while accommodating the practical needs of a family, and as an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This house is indeed a great escape, oozing easy living and luxury at every turn. Spacious interiors open onto outdoor entertaining areas overlooking a private interior courtyard on one side, and the blue bay and beach on the other. Does it get any better than this? Take a tour and judge for yourself.

]]>

Dubbed "De Wet 34" this modern beach house boasts concrete walls and a shapely silhouette that begs to be explored. "Built over four floors, the living areas are open-plan yet have distinct identities," explain the architects. "A minimalist weathered redwood and grey-shale street facade opens on to a sculptural arrival courtyard which in turn leads to an entrance gallery. Dramatic volume, far-reaching views, sculpture and raw textures - rock, timber, concrete - are the cornerstones of this house, designed to form a canvas for the setting and develop a patina over time."

The soaring double-height living and dining room is an elegant, sprawling space enclosed in glass and views to die for. A glazed wall opens to the central courtyard on one side, and to the pool and ocean on the other.

The private courtyard sits between the living/dining area, the kitchen, and the more-intimate family room on the other side, coming full circle.

Warm yet modern, this open concept living area is topped with wood ceilings and an upper-level loft area overlooking the on-goings below. Behind the dining area, a five-ton cocktail bar is a sculptural centerpiece of rippling rough-hewn granite, anchoring this end of the space.

And on the other side, a rippling concrete fireplace and feature wall anchors this side of the space. With floor-to-ceiling glass doors on either side, this area becomes a roofed alfresco entertaining area with a simple slide side-to-side. The pool area, though outside, is as artfully decorated as interiors, bringing a subtle sophistication and sweet serenity out into the open.

Follow the sculptural concrete staircase down to the bedroom level, and continue down to the lower-level playroom and guest room.

The stairway leads up to a loft area. Overhead, the curved, wood-clad ceiling features a long skylight running the length of the open stairwell.

The bedroom is a cozy and earthy retreat - once in, you'll never want to leave. This multi-purpose space includes a desk area for work, facing a television and an intimate collection of artwork - certain favorites including photos and pieces painted by the kids - splashed across the walls. The bed and sitting area faces a floor-to-ceiling glass wall which slides open to the outdoors.

A soaker tub extends into the outdoors, facing the bedroom and connected to the rest of the bath.

This spa-inspired space wraps you in earthy luxury, featuring trees branching up from the tiled floor and reaching up toward the wood-finished ceiling overhead. Expansive mirrors double the space visually, and a glass wall at the end leads to the tub and the outdoors beyond. A sliding wood wall closes off the bathroom from the bedroom area, delivering privacy on demand.

From the architects, "The interiors create an emotional and sensory journey when moving through the house. Furnishings are minimal and lines are kept simple and neutral. By utilizing a restrained and raw base of textures and finishes, the decor feels natural and subtly organic; the overall ambiance is one of calm and serenity. Color is kept to a bare minimum; the interior works predominantly with a light and shade tonal range, allowing views of the mountain, the ocean and sky, and also the artwork to introduce color."

Open to the outdoors, this indoor / outdoor house plan puts nature at center stage - and with views like these, it's no wonder why. Bravo!

SAOTA
photo credit: SAOTA & Adam Letch

Strangely Shaped Beach House on a narrow lot

2013-05-09T03:39:19Z

This hillside house in Mount Martha, Australia is modern luxury with a twist - the twist taking a literal form in the home's playfully curved walls. This contemporary style beach house by Rachcoff Vella Architecture was designed to embrace the sparkling shoreline without giving in to the typical "beach shack" structure. Quite the opposite, this unusual home features a complex facade and sophisticated interiors that boast a strong connection to nature while balancing a modern side. The house was designed to accommodate its single resident who stays here part time, while also welcoming her guests to stay and feel right at home. In addition, while this house was made to meet her specific "single" needs, it remains flexible enough to work for a potential future owner as a family living environment. Here's how the architects achieved their goal.

]]>

The home's sloped situation is a blessing and a blight, so to speak. From front to back of this narrow lot, there is a 5 meter drop which brings awesome views but posed some challenges in the design and construction of the house. Thus, the structure takes shape in two volumes - a linear wing and a sculptural, curved volume that invites visitors and views alike.

The sculptural silhouette reflects the homeowner's playful side. Floor-to-ceiling glass encloses the arching facade, framing views and letting natural light flood interiors. The ground-level garage tucks this essential utility area beneath the main living spaces while raising them up to maximize the view.

The two-storey residence has a north-south orientation, framing gorgeous views at either end. Expansive glazed walls invite the outside in, while alfresco entertaining areas welcome outdoor living at every turn.

Interiors are organized along this axis, shielded by adjustable exterior louvers that let the light in while keeping the scorching heat out.

Versatile interiors make the most of this serene setting, engaging the outdoors and accommodating one resident, but easily home to 10 or more guests at any given time. The space captures this peaceful location and lifestyle for the homeowner's solo moments, but it also works well in social situations with its open concept layout.

Contemporary yet comfortable, interiors prove you don't need an excess of space to enjoy a little sweet style. Finishes have a cool, clean aesthetic, reflecting the home's beachy surroundings. A backdrop of lusterless "spotted gum" wood, natural stone, and matte white surfaces are offset by dramatic elements like joinery and fixtures, and sporadic pops of vibrant color that reflect the playful personality of the homeowner.

Glass walls expand the home's living space beyond its square footage, with sight lines stretching to the horizon.

This house is brimming with interesting built-in details, like this cozy nook for reading, sipping some wine, or watching the world go by through the glass.

These minimal built-in shelves make a great spot to display some favorite books or collections, while staying in line with the home's simple style.

The compact kitchen feels much bigger than its actual size, thanks to the lack of dividing walls in the space, and where walls do exist, they happen to be made of glass, opening up interiors to the outdoors. The palette of white and wood gets a modern touch with the addition of stainless steel appliances.

Just outside, a spacious patio cantilevers over the lower-level deck, providing a sunny extension to the living areas inside. Glass half walls encircling the patio offer unobstructed views.

Follow the organic wood wall down a hallway to a more secluded spot to escape the outside world.

Simple spaces are dressed up with subtle but totally awesome features, like interesting door designs. And check out this shaped ceiling overhead!

This wood wall continues into the bedroom, abutting an inconspicuous white door, begging you to explore...

Behind this plain white door, a spacious walk-in closet and dressing area is any fashionista's dream come true. After a frenzied morning of primping and prepping, just close the door to conceal any mess - out of sight, out of mind! Order and sweet serenity are instantly restored.

Like the home's principal living areas, the bedroom also boasts a massive window and direct access to the outdoors.

This wood-wrapped stairway is more of an art piece. Its timber slats are staggered at the top in a whimsical way. A contemporary coral-inspired pendant light hangs in this tall, open space.

The bright white bathroom is awash in contemporary touches, like a minimalist palette with simple details, lots of interior glass, and of course, windows and views.

The mirror above the sink is as functional as it is fashionable. A hinged arm swings out to reveal an additional mirror on the inside, and a wood exterior to complement the floor.

The deep soaker tub is a spa-inspired luxury at the heart of this chic space. Wrapped in windows, the bathtub offers views when you want them, and privacy via gauzy grey curtains that still let natural light in.

You'll have to agree, this is not your typical beach house, but it has all the elements of one - water views, alfresco living areas, and expansive glazing that brings these amazing outdoors in.

The contemporary decks and landscaping echo the modern edge of the house.

An elegant grand entrance leads the way into this chic home.

Rachcoff Vella Architecture
via Contemporist
photo credit: Shannon McGrath & Entrant

Compact Wisconsin Cabin with a Tower

2013-05-07T20:00:30Z

Right in line with many of its other architectural designs, Milwaukee-based Johnsen Schmaling Architects designed this modern cabin in a remote forest of Muscoda, Wisconsin. Measuring just 880 sq. ft., what this compact house lacks in size, it more than makes up for in style. The hillside home is built into the slope, featuring a low-lying volume buried into the hill, connected to a tower overlooking the tree-covered valley below.

]]>

The tight budget meant the home had to be small and simple. To keep the home's footprint small, the architects steered away from a traditional horizontal layout and opted instead for a stacked plan, organizing the communal living space, bathroom and tool shed vertically in the tower.

Now to the horizontal portion of this L-shaped layout. A small workshop, equipment storage, and a washroom are buried into the hillside, with direct access to the clearing through a wood-slatted door.

Above it, the living areas are awash in yellow, bringing vibrant pops of color to the dark facade through large windows and glass walls enclosing the main floor.

Above the lower-level utility areas, the open concept main living areas are full of natural light and views. The different living areas - kitchen, living and dining area, and sleeping "rooms" - can be divided simply by drawing the gauzy floor-to-ceiling curtains closed. These modular "walls" can be configured in a combination of ways, opening different areas onto each other while enclosing others, with the simple flick of the wrist.

The whole space is organized around a wood-burning fireplace, which is surely a hotspot of this home. Interiors have an earthy yet modern aesthetic, thanks to the massive wood-framed window walls on either side, polished concrete floors, and the comfortable yet stylish furniture selections.

The fully glazed walls allow for views right through the house, bringing living spaces right out into the landscape - a smart design feature that visually expands living areas beyond their limited square footage.

Built on a small clearing at the edge of a dense forest, this cabin home is surrounded by dense forest. This countryside backdrop for a contemporary style home is quite the contrast. When viewed from a distance, the home's interiors pop against the earthy organic backdrop - like canaries sitting among the branches.

From the architects, "The meticulously detailed project takes advantage of readily available materials used in the region's farmstead architecture. On the outside, exposed concrete, cedar, anodized metal, and cementitious plaster all echo the muted, earthy hues of the surrounding forest and rock formations. The material palette extends to the inside, where integrally colored polished concrete floors on the two main levels provide sufficiently durable surfaces against the periodic abuse from cross country skies, dogs, and muddy hiking boots. Walls, ceilings, and built-in cabinets are painted white, lightening up the interiors during the long winter months and providing a quiet, neutral foreground against which nature's complex and ever-changing tableau, carefully framed by the cabin's large openings, can unfold."

This is how the house came together, piece by piece. The simple structure didn't put too much pressure on the tight budget.

Johnsen Schmaling Architects