Architect Robert M. Gurney has remodeled a Lyon Park House in Arlington’s “urban village” neighborhood, Virginia, US. Since most houses in the area were constructed in 20’s and 30’s, the architect had his work cut out for him. Originally a colonial building, Lyon Park House looks like a completely new contemporary adobe.
To create a cozy yet open space, Gurney had the original second floor exterior walls and roof removed and rebuilt. Lots of glass inclusions and functional windows satisfy the requirement for the home to feel open.


As with most contemporary modern designs, Lyon Park House comes with black steel frame peeping out from under generous wooden siding. Glass decorates transitional spaces as well as the dining area and kitchen. Huge floor to ceiling windows surround the open layout living area, flooding the room with daylight.
Charcoal fiber cement panels and gray stucco complete the exterior, while on the inside there is plenty of light wood making up flooring and furnishings.
Since the structure is sectioned, it looks different from each side. A more prominent façade shows more wooden siding, while the back employs more glass to open up to the natural green landscape.
Colonial Private Residence Turns Modernist












