Projects Archive – HAUS | Architecture

16 Jun 2018

Lakeside Modern Lodge

Story

Lakeside Modern Lodge located in Unionville, IN broke ground in fall 2017 for a an extended family retreat. This project is located right on beautiful Lake Lemon south of Martinsville and north of Bloomington.

Our client has owned this property for over 25 years and it has served as primarily a weekend destination. Unquestionably, the site and lake is a fabulous family recreation spot for all water-activities. As a matter of fact, this particular site abuts a protected forest preserve on one side with no worry of future development. In addition, a few neighbors have been renovating their properties, and our client decided it was time to do the same. By investing in the long-term for themselves and younger generations, our client is raising the bar for the area.

Project Info – Lakeside Modern Lodge:

Architecture/Interior Design/Renderings/Photography: HAUS | Architecture with Client
Construction Management: WERK | Building Modern

Relevant Links:

Delta Millworks Website – New Projects

Design Process

The design transforms the pre-existing cottage built in the 1970s with a new modern design solution that completely breaks the architectural design expectation for the area. It was important to have enough space and beds for large family stays, so much of the initial focus was on providing enough sleep-space and support facilities for bigger groups.

On initial discussions, we were under the impression that or clients wanted to continue the design theme of the existing waterfront (traditional), but perhaps dial-up the level of design, detail, and quality to fit-in. Our early concepts did just that while adding a new master suite, enhanced bedrooms with bunk space, screened porch, enhanced kitchen, wet-bar, fireplace, laundry, bathrooms, and living spaces while infilling the space between house and garage. To that point, our discussions had focused mostly on the functional and budgetary aspects of the project. Once we got a good start on those issues, the discussions turned to the exterior and interior aesthetics.

Our client shared a few images and surprised us with a desire and means to go modern. Months later, the client remembered that Chris’ eyes lit-up when the conversation went that direction. That’s probably true, but for the record, HAUS enjoys all types of architecture including the nuances of each client relationship and resulting design solutions. We love that our clients challenge us and Don/JoAnn have done just that; what a pleasure it is to work with such fun people.

Parti Diagram (Design Concept) - Lakeside Modern Cottage (H-LODGE) - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - HAUS Architecture — Parti Diagram (Design Concept) – Lakeside Modern Lodge (H-LODGE) – Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon

Site Plan - Lakeside Modern Cottage (H-LODGE) - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - HAUS Architecture — Site Plan – Lakeside Modern Lodge (H-LODGE) – Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon

Existing Floor Plan - Lakeside Modern Cottage (H-LODGE) - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - HAUS Architecture — Existing Floor Plan – Lakeside Modern Lodge (H-LODGE) – Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon

New Floor Plan - Lakeside Modern Cottage (H-LODGE) - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - HAUS Architecture — New Floor Plan – Lakeside Modern Lodge (H-LODGE) – Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon

Section Diagram – Lakeside Modern Lodge (H-LODGE) – Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon

3D Section Diagram - Lakeside Modern Cottage (H-LODGE) - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - HAUS Architecture — 3D Section Diagram – Lakeside Modern Lodge (H-LODGE) – Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon

Exterior southwest highlights screened porch and south porch with overlooking bunk rooms - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Exterior southwest highlights screened porch and south porch with overlooking bunk rooms – Lakeside Modern Lodge – Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon

Please check back as we will be sharing more about the project design process.

Construction

HAUS’ sister company, WERK | Building Modern, is the construction manager for the project. So fortunately, we are involved in every aspect of the project from beginning to end. Our best projects are the projects where we are the builder and are able to protect the vision. With the process, the client and project benefit from the daily involvement of the Architect within the construction process; every design, detail, and cost decision goes through the Owner and Architect, which is really important if design is a priority. Thanks to Chris Adams for his daily oversight, framing, and trim carpentry work. Thanks to all trade contractors, many of whom we are working with for the first time. This is because of the project location.

The construction of this project is underway, so please check-back for ongoing updates! Indeed, we expect substantial completion in late fall 2018.

(Summer 2020 Update) – Our clients have been enjoying the property for since summer 2019. And now that landscaping is growing-in, we have been able to begin photographing the results of the effort. We’ll be sharing the photos and updates over the next several weeks on social media and here, so please be sure to check back!

Construction Process – Lakeside Modern Lodge

Demolition Begins

Demolition on existing property is just beginning with exterior siding removal - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Demolition on existing property is just beginning with exterior siding removal – Lakeside Modern Lodge (fall 2017).

Framing Process Goes Vertical

View from the south during the framing stage - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — View from the south during the framing stage – Lakeside Modern Lodge (winter 2017-18).

View from the north during the framing stage - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — View from the north during the framing stage – Lakeside Modern Lodge (winter 2017-18).

Main building forms beginning to take shape (viewed from lakeside) - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Main building forms beginning to take shape (viewed from lakeside) – Lakeside Modern Lodge (spring 2018).

The two large windows on top of the two-story volume are the locations of the matching bunk platforms that have their own nook inside two of the four upstairs bedrooms.

Crane maxed-out it's reach during the roof truss installations due to the sloping site and limited staging access points - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Crane maxed-out it’s reach during the roof truss installations due to the sloping site and limited staging access points – Lakeside Modern Lodge (spring 2018).

Roof trusses with integral parapets are great for flat roofs in residential construction - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Roof trusses with integral parapets are great for flat roofs in residential construction – Lakeside Modern Lodge (spring 2018).

Roof Truss Installation Day

Truss and miscellaneous roof framing progressing - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Truss and miscellaneous roof framing progressing – Lakeside Modern Lodge (spring 2018).

Sunrise over lake in late 2017 on an early morning at the jobsite - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Sunrise over lake on an early morning at the job-site (winter 2017-18).

Steel beam and column do some heavy lifting to help achieve the new design concepts - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Steel beam and column do some heavy lifting to help achieve the new design concepts (winter 2017-18).

View of the south clerestory windows and raised ceiling - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — View of the south clerestory windows and raised ceiling (winter 2017-18).

This raised ceiling accommodates clerestory below to bring south light over the covered porch (covered porch not framed yet in this photograph), but also forms the base for the upstairs raised bunk nooks overlooking the lake. During project tours, client family and friends seem most intrigued by the loft bed platforms above the clerestory windows.

View from kitchen to new panoramic lake view - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — View from kitchen to new panoramic lake view (winter 2017-18).

On approach to the property from the north cul-de-sac, house is tucked half-way down the hill. Two story portion of the home pops-ups above flanking flat roofs - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — On approach to the property from the north cul de sac, house is tucked half-way down the hill. Two story portion of the home pops-up above flanking flat roofs (spring 2018).

Client Site Visit

Our clients were excited to see recent progress, including the recent upper roof truss installations - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Our clients were excited to see recent progress, including the recent upper roof truss installations (spring 2018).

Our clients were excited to see recent progress including the high roof truss installations - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Checking-out site progress during site meeting (spring 2018).

Our clients are having fun seeing the recent roof truss installation for the first time - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Fun to visualize how the siding will look now that we can get a real visual on-site (spring 2018).

Front vaulted ceilings with clerestory windows will bring natural light from the south exposure over covered porch into living spaces - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Front vaulted ceilings with clerestory windows will bring natural light from the south exposure over covered porch into living spaces (spring 2018).

After this photo was taken, a few weeks later, Don and JoAnn brought JoAnn’s father down for a visit recently (he just turned 100-years-old this year). He said, “this is just how grandpa would have built it”. Grandpa was JoAnn’s grandpa, her mother’s father – a builder from his day. JoAnn said we now have validation from her father, which is a good feeling.

Wall and roof framing looking upward from lakeside elevation - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Wall and roof framing looking upward from lakeside elevation (spring 2018).

New steel beams open the interiors for more flexibility and space for unimpeded family recreation - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — New steel beams open the interiors for more flexibility and space for unimpeded family recreation (spring 2018).

Shou Sugi Ban Siding

Finish exterior siding from Texas (Delta Millworks - Accoya, TX Barnwood, HMS Black)) has arrived safely - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Finish exterior siding from Texas (Delta Millworks – Accoya, TX Barnwood, HMS Black)) has arrived safely (spring 2018).

More Framing Progress Views

Upper roof finished-off - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Upper roof rough framing completed (spring 2018).

Bedroom Loft view from SE bedroom looking toward lake - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Bedroom loft view from SE bedroom looking toward lake – this is one of the most talked-about and unique features of the project (summer 2018).

Framing progress view from northside - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Framing Progress (north elevation) – workers have installed exterior ZIP sheathing and windows, and roofers are ready to complete roofing. Flat roofs are EPDM and will be covered in a dark gravel. Shed roof will be standing seam in a pre-weathered galvalume finish by McElroy (Summer 2018).

Entry Skylights + Clerestory Transom Window borrow light from north elevation into 2nd Story hallway and 1st Floor living spaces - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Entry skylights + clerestory transom window borrow light from north-side into upper bedroom hallway and main lower level living spaces. Client with trim carpenter team plans to furnish the entry gallery with wall-hung family artifacts highlighted with track-mounted spotlights (Summer 2018).

Exterior Sheathing Substantial Completion

South Elevation progress includes final sheathing, window installations, and porch roof overhang - ZIP Sheathing System - Flat Roofs, Sliding Glass Wall - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Lakeside elevation progress includes final sheathing, window installations, and porch roof overhang (Summer 2018).

Special Roof Drainage Canopy Channel - Delta Millworks - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Special Roof Drainage Canopy Channel (Aquaduct) (Summer 2018)

Shou Sugi Ban Detail - Delta Millworks - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Shou Sugi Ban Detail – Delta Millworks (Summer 2018)

Rough-In Stage

Interior Rough-Ins Progressing - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Interior Rough-Ins Progressing (Summer 2018)

Cabinetry + Finish Carpentry Installations Begin

Cabinetry Installation Day - Delta Millworks - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Custom Cabinetry Installation Day (Summer 2018)

Custom Cabinet at Clerestory - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Custom Cabinet at Clerestory (Fall 2018)

Neighboring Forest Preserve - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Neighboring Forest Preserve (Fall 2018)

Interior Painting Progress - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Interior Painting Progress (Fall 2018)

Master Vanity Progress - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Master Vanity Progress (Fall 2018)

Ready for Finish Carpentry

Now that crews have completed flooring, cabinetry, and tile, the final piece on the interior is finish carpentry. The fireplace wrap, architectural stair, and furnishings will tie up the remaining interior touches. We are really excited about the design of these details and helping coordinate their installation to finish.

Main Living Spaces are nearing completion - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Main Living Spaces are nearing completion (November 2018)

Here below we can see how the exterior siding looks wrapping the gas fireplace enclosure. Blackened steel wraps the fascias above and below fireplace, including the recess returns.

Gas fireplace enclosure is wrapped in Shou Sugi Ban Siding - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Gas fireplace enclosure is wrapped in Shou Sugi Ban Siding (December 2018)

Master Shower Detail - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Master Shower Detail (December 2018)

Our cabinetry on all main level living spaces is custom-fabricated. However, areas such as closets, laundry, and guest vanities are tailored from prefabricated stock. In the photo below we can see thoughtful accommodations including open hanging space and drawers below. In addition, adjustable LED track-lighting provides the necessary illumination.

Master Closet Detail - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Master Closet Detail (December 2018)

Exterior Siding + Deck Progress

Once we weathered-in the house months prior, we weighted our focus on interior finish to keep that aspect rolling. So as we can see below, exterior is just a bit behind interior progress. Our friend Chris Adams is handling the rough carpentry, finish carpentry, flooring, and painting with limited crews. Hence, we have worked with Chris to help coordinate and prioritize phases of work.

Here below, we have completed about 80% of exterior siding. Besides the black siding, the team is also working to prefinish the clear white pine soffit materials. Of course, this can be challenging in cold weather. However, exterior lakeside decks can most certainly progress in the colder weather. Also, we are working to reuse portions of existing decks where possible, and integrate some existing stone retaining walls.

Our supplier shipped the decking material from Miami by way of Italy. This material comes in some interesting metric lengths which are shorter than other manufacturers. For this reason, we have designed a specific deck and structural layout solution.

South Elevation Progress - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — South Elevation Progress (December 2018)

Metal Exterior Details

The exterior is taking shape, but the details will make it architecture. In fact, we have some fine-tuning to complete. In particular, the area between the two upper level lakeside windows is to be metal-panel siding, not wood. For this reason, we’ll be removing siding between these windows, and our roofing contractor will install smooth black folded interlocking-seam panels with associated flashing for window alignment.

We have already met with roofer about this siding detail. But concurrently, he will also be installing copings, metal roof fascias, and the custom roof scuppers and open face downspout details. So, we’re excited to share our solutions for these details that address flat roof debris next to a heavily wooded location.

Shou Sugi Ban + Deck Framing Detail - Delta Millworks - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Shou Sugi Ban Siding + Deck Framing Detail (December 2018)

Open Riser Architectural Stair

We have saved the open riser architectural stair for last on the interior so that other work and trades wouldn’t be contributing wear-and-tear to the stair. It was definitely worth the wait, and looks just as designed. We used Eastern White Pine for the treads, glued-up Poplar for the stringers, and pre-manufactured railing components for the railing system (Viewrail).

Architectural Open-Riser Custom Stair - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon - Christopher Short, Derek Mills, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture + WERK | Building Modern - Construction Managers - Architect Custom Builders — Architectural Open-Riser Custom Stair (May 2019)

Black Aluminum Rainchain Downspout Detail (4 Rainchains) - Lakeside Modern Cottage - Unionville, Indiana, Lake Lemon — Black Aluminum Rainchain Downspout Detail (July 2019)

Please check-back as we will be posting updates periodically – you won’t want to miss the upcoming progress!

Architect’s Statement:

H-LODGE reconstruction began in fall 2017 to update an aging cottage for an extended family retreat on Lake Lemon, located in Unionville, Indiana. The client was interested in a dramatic modern transformation inside and out that incorporated existing conditions, added a main level master suite, and included complete interior updates enhancing indoor-outdoor relationships. But most importantly, they wanted a comfortable place for family to enjoy time together on the lake while also leaving a legacy for future generations.

The property sits adjacent to a protected forest owned by the City of Bloomington; a prime lakefront location. The original structure, built in the 1971 and acquired by our clients in 1989, included the primary house with detached accessory storage and garage structures. Each was experiencing some degree of structural degradation, with outdated interior and exterior.

Design Solution:

The new design solution connected and preserved the existing structures, which led to a completely new modern aesthetic inside and out. From the south, the new façade broadens the lakeside exposure with a low, horizontal roof tying together the inside and outside spaces and framing panoramic lakeside views. New master suite, storage, powder room, and screened porch spaces make-up the infill between original house and garage. The south-side screened porch is offset from the main living spaces to maximize interior views and light. The north-facing master suite bumps-out to accommodate space requirements and distinguish the massing independently from original house and garage. This new motif supports abundant glazing which receives the south passive solar rays in winter. The dark cladding retreats to counterbalance the bold, simple form while visually tying the exterior into a low-maintenance, cohesive whole.

Since covered porches span the entire south façade, it was important to find a solution that would allow an enhanced level of natural light into the living spaces beyond. The new clerestory along southern edge does just that, allowing sunlight to bypass the lower porch roof and directly shine into the interior living spaces. And as an added benefit upstairs, this raised area becomes a loft feature for the lakeside bedrooms (more places to sleep!). The central upper level pavilion rises above a mostly horizontal composition distinguishing itself with its height, shed-roof overhangs with contrasting soffits, and integrated uplighting.

Interior:

The interior functional layout generally follows the original, but adjusts to a more modern, open-concept plan. While the clerestory floods and unites the living spaces with natural light, the two-sided fireplace wrapped in exterior cladding separates living from dining. Also, kitchen cabinets flow from kitchen to dining space, morphing into new wet bar and clerestory tower. At the entry area, team reconstructed the existing split-level stair, again utilizing exterior materials on the interior. Eastern White Pine was used to fashion custom block treads with rounded flutes on walking surface. Heavy stringers are fabricated from Poplar glue-ups and painted black. Railing is a prefabricated steel and cable-rail kit of parts.

Sustainability:

Sustainable features include embodied energy from reclaimed-repaired-reinforced structural elements (original foundations, garage slab, wood walls and deck structures, foundation walls, shed + garage structures, and driveway). New double-glazed, aluminum-clad wood, low-E windows, sliding doors, and skylights replaced smaller, inefficient windows and doors for high-efficiency (daylighting + long-lasting materials) and to allow passive solar rays to heat interior spaces in winter. Windows on east and west exposures are minimized to limit east-west solar gain. New unvented roof system integrating closed-cell board insulation over deck + fiberglass under deck (R-45 or better) replaced under-insulated original vented attic – building envelope resilience.

Accoya/Shou-Sugi Ban siding clads the exterior, with contrasting soffits of Eastern White Pine – natural materials. Primary shed roof is standing seam in pre-weathered galvalume finish, with continous black gutter with debris screens and aluminum rain chains to channel water to sub-grade drainage tiles – long-lasting/resilient materials. Flat roof rainwater is channeled laterally via custom rooftop aqueduct spanning linear lakefront roofs with custom conductor heads and downspout terminations. We designed the site drainage and roof water management thoughtfully for the steeply-sloping site – sustainable drainage solutions. Flat roofs are black EPDM with ballast cover – light roof coverings address heat island effect.

Resilience:

New high-efficiency appliances and plumbing fixtures, propane-fueled HVAC systems, extra wall insulation, smart-programmable controls, and LED light fixtures further contribute to project sustainability. We sized the roofs for future intensive green roof and solar panel integration. Main level cabinetry is custom utilizing maple cabinet boxes and drawers with low-VOC materials and finishes. This home increased in size, yet the energy bills (propane $30/month – electrical averages $130/month) are dramatically reduced from previous baseline, according to the client (part-time residence). Baseline Energy Use Intensity (EUI): Typical Residential Home (130 Zero Score) – Target EUI: (40 Zero Score) – Projected EUI: (40 Zero Score) – Percent Reduction from Baseline: 70%

29 Mar 2019

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Silvopasture Farmstead

Intro

September 2019 – Silvopasture Farmstead is a new eclectic modern farmhouse build tentatively breaking-ground in late summer 2020 on a 60-acre property in St. Paul, Indiana (near Shelbyville).

Our clients, who recently moved to Indiana from Jersey City, NJ, will live adjacent to family-owned acreage currently used for farmland. Our clients have the long-view in-mind. Most certainly, this is the house and property they hope to live-in for many years. It’s the hope that the structures we design and build will still be standing and useful in 300 years.

So with that in-mind, we are certainly planning for resilience and low-maintenance. For example, we are planning to utilize ICF-insulated concrete forms for all walls with extra R-value details and super-insulated roof structure. Also, we’re planning for enough solar to achieve net-zero in this all-electric powered project. These are some of many high-efficiency features for this house – we’ll share more in the near future.

In addition to the phase-one primary residence, the long-term plan includes a future barn, possible observatory, and comprehensive silvopasture site planning and implementation. There will be livestock and abundant trees, my friends!

Silvopasture Farmstead

Project Info:

Clients: Private Owners (relocating from New Jersey back home near family)
Architecture: HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles with Client
Interior Design: HAUS with Client
Site Design Consultant: Quantum Land Design
Builder/Construction Manager: TBD
Photography/Renderings: HAUS (except where noted otherwise)

The Design Process – Silvopasture Farmstead:

The Property is in the “Agricultural Conservation” zoning district. Significantly, the zoning code has a special exemption allowing client to build a single family home on any area not labeled “prime farmland” on the USDA soil survey. The design for the primary single-family dwelling was inspired by classic traditional farmhouses with a few modern details to navigate his and her aesthetic preferences. We have a great start, but still have work to complete once we confirm budgets relative to current scopes. For sure, we’ll share more about the design process in the near future, including the various site planning goals and layout.

Site Elevations GIS Mapping - Silvopasture Farmhouse - St. Paul, Indiana — Site Elevations GIS Mapping – St. Paul, Indiana (Image from online GIS/Owner)

Site Study GIS Mapping - Silvopasture Farmhouse - St. Paul, Indiana — GIS Mapping + Site Evaluation (Potential Pond Locations) – St. Paul, Indiana (Image from Owner)

Budget Pricing Documents:

In early 2020, we completed basic construction documents. Specifically, we will use these documents to confirm we are on-track with our budgets. Overall, pricing for major scopes will be completed in mid-spring. Then, we’ll have a better idea on what the next steps will involve.

Fall 2020 – Owner holding for possible construction starting spring/summer 2021. In the meantime, farmstead improvements are underway, including ponds, land cultivation/conservation, and the addition of friendly livestock!

View of Meadow (summer 2020) - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana - HAUS | Architecture — View of Meadow – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – Summer 2020)

Friendly Livestock (summer 2020) - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana - HAUS | Architecture — Friendly Livestock – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – Summer 2020)

Construction Begins – Silvopasture Farmstead:

Surveyors Strategizing - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Surveyors Strategizing – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – Summer 2021)

Field of Sunflowers - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Field of Sunflowers – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – Summer 2021)

Livestock Bathing in Retainage Pond - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Livestock Bathing in Retainage Pond – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – Summer 2021)

Basement Excavation Complete - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Basement Excavation Complete – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – summer 2021)

Footings Complete (Pigs Inspecting) - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Footings Complete (Pigs Inspecting) – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – Summer 2021)

Cow inspects ICF Foundation Wall Forms (Nudura) - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Cow inspects ICF Foundation Wall Forms (Nudura) – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – Summer 2021)

Drone Video – ICF Wall Progress

(Video by Owner – Summer 2021)

Basement Slab Poured, Including Depression for Future Residential Elevator (Nudura ICF Forms) - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Basement Slab Poured, Including Depression for Future Residential Elevator (Nudura ICF Forms) – Silvopasture Farmstead – St. Paul, Indiana (Photo by Owner – Summer 2021)

Lumber Delivery Arrives - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Lumber Delivery Arrives (Photo by Owner – Summer 2021)

Roof Framing View from Northwest (Nudura ICF Forms) - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Roof Framing View from Northwest (Nudura ICF Forms) (Photo by Owner – Fall 2021)

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Front Facade Elevation Nudura ICF Forms Poured with Concrete + Roof Framing Underway - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Front Facade Elevation Nudura ICF Forms Poured with Concrete + Roof Framing Underway (Photo by Owner – Fall 2021)

Drone Video – ICF Gable End-Wall Progress

(Video by Owner – Summer 2021)

View from Back Elevated Deck (Framing Stage) - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — View from Back Elevated Deck (Framing Stage) (Photo by Owner – Fall 2021)

Drone Video – ICF Walls Completed + Roof Framing In-Progress

(Video by Owner – Fall 2021)

Goat Looks Over Retainage Pond at Sunset - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Goat Looks Over Retainage Pond at Sunset (Photo by Owner – Fall 2021)

Donkeys in Pasture - Silvopasture Farmstead - St. Paul, Indiana — Donkeys in Pasture (Photo by Owner – Fall 2021)

Please check back for project story updates!

19 Feb 2017

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Modern Lakehouse

Modern Lakehouse revitalization at Lake Clearwater in Indianapolis is now complete! This neighborhood, originally established in 1980s, has been undergoing a wave of substantial property improvements for the last several years. Certainly, it benefits from lakefront property in an area with some of the best restaurants and shopping in Indiana.

This project marks our third project in the neighborhood and second Clearwater design-build effort in 4 years. We really appreciate having another opportunity to work with this particular client, who is one of our all-time faves. Sometimes a team dynamic is spot-on, and it’s easy to get excited about going above-and-beyond for people that share our enthusiasm for a creative design process. Fittingly, our client started the process by affectionately naming the project, “Esther”.

Project Info – Modern Lakehouse Clearwater:

Architecture/Interior Design/Renderings/Photography: HAUS | Architecture + Client
Construction Management: WERK | Building Modern
Featured: 2018 AIA Home Tour
Featured: 2019 Indianapolis Monthly – Home of the Month (April print edition + link)

Media Links:

AIA selected Esther to be on the AIA Home Tour in September 2018, and we enjoyed seeing so many of our friends, colleagues, and clients on the tour! Here below are some media links featuring Esther.

INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY Magazine “Healing Waters”

HAVEN Magazine: A Modern Revival – HAUS and Franklin Window & Door collaborate on Lakehouse

“Our Favorite Houses – #11 – Waterside Oasis” – Indianapolis Monthly – Megan Fernandez

Design Process – Modern Lakehouse

Background

Previous owners had renovated the property several years ago, but it was time again for something fitting for “Esther”. So as one would expect, “Esther” wanted to include favorite features from Adagio that we helped design in 2010-2012. The question was how far would we be able to take the design with required approvals from the HOA.

Design Concept

The design concept simplifies and highlights the existing structure with elementary expressions at entry, main living spaces, and lakeside maximizing south light and panoramic lakeside views. Also, we eliminated some of the original design complexities for a streamlined solution capitalizing on the simple open-concept gable form and structure. Entry, Kitchen, Home Office, Dining Area, and Master Suite are all completely remodeled.

Highlights include a white oak ceiling, porcelain tile floor, custom cabinetry, refined trim carpentry, zinc standing seam roof, all new windows, and new exterior cladding. Our initial goal was to go darker on the exterior colors, but HOA-approved exterior color palette leans lighter. We may re-open the exterior color discussion again a bit later (see if we can go dark grey). Update: Architect originally felt that a darker exterior paint scheme was the way-to-go, but Owner encouraged a lighter color for a better neighborhood fit. It looks great with the lighter color (Judy, you were right again).

Passive Solar

In the rendering below, you can see a hint of the large south-facing window wall popping-up above the roofline. We simply wanted to grab some natural light into the main living space. This move became one of the main features inside and out.

Modern Lakehouse - Clearwater - Aerial View - Christopher Short, Architect, Indianapolis, HAUS Architecture — Modern Lakehouse – Clearwater – Aerial View

Context

This project was a fun opportunity to fit-in but add a level of refinement to this 1980s development. The HOA is made-up of open-minded individuals who were okay stepping-out of the box a little-bit. Some previous projects had integrated standing-seam roofs in accent-entry areas only. They entertained the idea of a zinc-clad standing-seam roof for this project pending samples and exterior paint finish review.

We proposed horizontal lap siding in keeping with the norm. However, instead of rough cedar lap, a smooth flush shiplap with reveal joints achieved the look.

Modern Lakehouse - Clearwater - Front Elevation - HAUS Architecture — Modern Lakehouse – Clearwater – Front Elevation

Entry

The entry concept below cleans-up the original inarticulate, busy, nondescript entry with the most simple extension of the existing roof structure. New front doors/windows face the street and include clear glazing to see directly-in, with foyer gallery wall providing visual privacy into the actual living spaces. The new garden privacy gate continues material and detail complimenting the new glass and aluminum overhead door.

Modern Lakehouse - Clearwater - Front Door, Derek Mills, HAUS Architecture — Front Entry Concept (Rendering) – Modern Lakehouse – Clearwater

Interior

As with exterior, interior is a simple expression of pre-existing roof structure, and highlights views with completely new glazing. In the interests of budget and preserving the view, we were able to maintain but reclad the original fireplace. Also, we have an integrated lighting system highlighting the architectural features to achieve an overall controlled, layered ambiance.

Details

This image below is one of our favorite vantage-points in the space, as it highlights the south-facing window-wall anchoring kitchen. We finished-off the concept by finishing window, back counter/cabinet, and appliances in black. Then the 13-foot long island floats forward in a lighter tone, integrating with wood ceiling, adjacent white cabinets, and flooring. The slatwall to the upper left (photo below) is a creative way to hide the return-air grill for the HVAC.

Later during the construction process, we refined the stair guardrails to follow the same slatwall detail for continuity and simplification. At this time, we were considering linear pin-lights hanging over the kitchen island. Instead, we shifted to simple 2″ can-lights over the island, and added a glass chandelier at dining table. It had to be either-or, because pendant lights in each location could have gotten cluttered visually. Good call by Judy once again.

Modern Lakehouse - Clearwater - Interior Living (looking south) - Christopher Short, Architect, Indianapolis, HAUS Architecture — Interior Living Space viewed from Master Suite Entry (Rendering) – Modern Lakehouse – Clearwater

Our client has great taste, so we get to benefit from her overall orchestration of interior fixtures and furnishings. The large custom art-piece indicated on the wall to the far left was taken from previous residence (photo below). As you can see, we have thought-through most of the interior design elements before construction has begun. More decisions up-front usually reduce stress-level and improve overall chances at project success.

Modern Lakehouse - Clearwater - Interior Living/Kitchen - Christopher Short, Architect, Indianapolis, HAUS Architecture — Interior Living/Kitchen (Rendering) – Modern Lakehouse – Clearwater

Budget Planning

From the lakeside, we looked at what impactful changes we could make within budget. The scope of this project focused primarily on the main level, with only minor cosmetic touches on the lower level. You can see below how the new glazing and lighted space presents from the lake. Bedroom to the left originally included glass transom and vaulted ceilings, but these enhancements were simplified during budgeting process.

Design concepts can work at various budgets, and your Architect is the go-to resource to advise on value-engineering decisions. In the case of this project, the Architect was also the Construction Manager (via WERK | Building Modern), which streamlines the process even more.

Lakeside View from Dock (Rendering) – Modern Lakehouse – Clearwater

Construction Process – Modern Lakehouse

“Before” Conditions

Please check-back, as we will add some before shots showing where we began with this property.

Demolition and Structural

We love breaking it open and getting to work. This photo below shows the framing stage after framers cleaned-out the space and blocked-in openings for winter until receiving windows. On the west-wall to the right, we added steel structure where needed to support the wind-loads and wall spans. Furthermore, we modified existing trusses with structural engineer design-assistance.

It’s really important to get a structural engineer involved when opening-up walls and ceilings. The reason is, some of these elements could be important for the stability of the structure. To the far left we can begin to see how the new south-facing dormer scales in the space.

Modern Lakehouse - Rough Carpentry — Modern Lakehouse – Rough Carpentry

Here below is a good shot of the new window wall/dormer (looking SSE toward direction of main entry). Entry is through the framed kitchen wall, with this wall providing privacy from new front entry to main living space.

The construction of the project started in late fall-early winter 2016. It looks like it was snowing this day (view from dock below).

Modern Lakehouse - Winter Dock View — Winter Dock View

Window Installation

Windows arrived and we got to live the open views to lake and let sunlight help warm the space. From a scale standpoint, the interior feels as expected, but always end-up looking better in real life.

We love this window wall and think it’s going to be money.

Modern Lakehouse Clearwater - Kitchen Window Detail — Kitchen Window Detail

Here’s a lakeside view when window installations were underway. We worked with Franklin Window & Door on the acquisition and installation of Marvin Ultimate Series windows for this project. Having worked on a few properties, we know how lakeside winds and moisture can affect windows, doors, and siding. This is why we pay strict attention to the design and installation of these walls especially. An excellent glazing product that manages water is important, as is the proper installation of flashings and sill pans. For this project, we also integrated a drainage plane (rainscreen) behind the siding that weeps water out of wall cavity.

Modern Lakehouse - Window Installation — Window Installation

We designed and installed all new windows on lakeside while maintaining stone chimney, rooflines, and deck structure. Furthermore, we were able to achieve some minor enhancements to the decks, but had to maintain the existing 45-degree angles to maintain views from adjacent properties. Happily, we were able to install prefabricated cable-rail systems to replace the outdated wood guards.

Custom Mill

Derek Mills, (HAUS + WERK) worked as the project architect and also the construction manager for this project beginning-to-end. Here in the photo below, Derek is meeting with lumber supplier to discuss options for wood ceiling material. This lumber supplier also was helpful in brainstorming our options for the shiplap siding and then milling to our specifications. Yes, Derek Mills was overseeing the milling process. However, Derek was not doing any actual milling.

Modern Lakehouse - White Oak Ceiling Samples, Derek Mills, WERK Building Modern, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — Modern Lakehouse – White Oak Ceiling Samples, Derek Mills

White oak is a great, timeless, beautiful material. Here below, the ceiling material is stacked on-site after milling and delivery. We were also able to utilize extra materials for the mirror accent wall in the Powder Room (see finish photos).

Modern Lakehouse Lake Clearwater Indianapolis - White Oak Ceiling Material Delivery, Derek Mills, WERK Building Modern, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — White Oak Ceiling Material Delivery (for ceilings and door casings)

We take pride in overall vision, but also details, because they cannot exist independently for best outcomes. Architect as Construction Manager enables better communication, streamlining the successful detailing and implementation of details like the image below. The proportions of materials, how materials intersect or abut … the design team needs to decide on every detail. Up-front, we define what is important to our client. For this project, a level of design sophistication and construction follow-through was important.

White Oak Casing Details and Porcelain Tile Floor - Modern Lakehouse Lake Clearwater Indianapolis - Derek Mills, WERK Building Modern, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — White Oak Casing Details and Porcelain Tile Floor

Custom Cabinetry

It was really exciting to see the white oak ceiling and the kitchen cabinetry going-in because we had tested so many design options. We really enjoy leading projects from idea to implementation, especially with clients who are fun to work with. Seeing ideas progress into built-form successfully is icing on the cake, really.

Custom Kitchen Island Construction - Cabinetry Green - John Hartman - Modern Lakehouse Lake Clearwater Indianapolis - Derek Mills, WERK Building Modern, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — Custom Kitchen Island Construction

Here below is the Poplar slatwall guardrailing system that we changed to compliment the hidden HVAC return-air grill detail. The trim carpentry work on this project is impeccable, as we have worked with this trade contractor for years on high-level projects. We can’t mention their name, because we need their availability on our projects, :).

Poplar Architectural Stair Construction Details - Modern Lakehouse, Clearwater, Indianapolis, Derek Mills, WERK Building Modern, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — Poplar Architectural Stair Construction Details

Our client sent us this image on Easter Day, 2018.

Please check back on this project, as we’ll be adding more about the design process.

Product Details – Materials/Vendors/Manufacturers:

Finishes

Main Flooring: Porcelain Tile – La Fabbrica Porcelain Tile – Icon “Oyster Lappato” 24″x48″
Master Bathroom Flooring: Porcelain Tile – La Fabbrica Porcelain Tile – I Marmi “Calcutta Lappato” 24″x48″
Cabinetry (Powder): custom cabinetry by local fabricator (white oak veneer + white high gloss or matte + PET black) REHAU Cabinet Doors
Coutertop (Powder): Color Quartz “Frost White” or “Pearl”
Cabinets (Master Closet): white melamine with hampers and pull-down rods (chrome)
Paint/Colors (Exterior): Sherwin Williams – SW7015 “Repose Gray” (siding/trims)
Paint/Colors (Exterior): Sherwin Williams – SW7014 “Eider White” (soffits)
Paint/Colors (Exterior): Sherwin Williams – SW7067 “Cityscape” (gutter boards/fascia)
Paint/Colors (Interior): Sherwin Williams – SW7004 “Snowbound” (walls/ceilings)
Living Room Ceiling: Custom White Oak with custom-mixed stain
Fireplace Stone Tile: Neptune “Anthracite” 12×24
Countertops (Kitchen): Color Quartz “Pearl” + Granite “Absolute Black”

Indoor Furniture

Master Bed: Ethan Allen “Jensen” diamond tufted fabric headboard
Master Chair: Eurotrend “Elizabetha”
Side Dresser: Crate & Barrel “Arch Collection”
Master Entry Table: Grandinroad “Harper” white
Office Sofa: Ligne Roset “Ruch Collection”
Desk Chair:Interlude “Bianca Collection”
Chair/Ottoman: Herman Miller Eames with Santos Palisander Finish and Ivory Leather
Side Table: Ligne Roset “Pan” Table
Reading Lights: Koncept Lighting “Lady Collection 7” floor lamps
Sofa: Gamma “Blues” Sectional
Barstools: 27″ square stainless steel & white – counter height

Outdoor Furniture

Exterior Furniture: Crate & Barrel + Brown Jordan + Art to Real + RADICI “Signal Collection”

Lighting

Lights: JUNO 2″ recessed LED with Gimbal trims
Decorative (Powder Room): Varick Gallery “Soules” globe pendants
Decorative (Master Bath): Sparta LED Bath Bar 36″
Shower (Wall Lights): Ledge Outdoor Wall Sconce 14″ LED
Pendant Lighting (Master Bedroom): Tom Dixon “Etched Pendant” various sizes (gold)
Fan (Master Bedroom): Lucci Air “Nordic Collection”
Office Lighting: Troy Lighting “Tides Collection”
Floor Lighting: Astro Lighting “Enna Collection”
Uplighting: Belfer Lighting #6215 wedge fixture customized
Dining Chandelier: Ethan Allen “Grand Whitney” (iron & crystal)
Ceiling Accent Lights: Greencreative LED strip lights
Exterior Wall Sconces: dweLED Caliber 2-Light LED Sconces 14″ tall (black)

Appliances

Cooktop: WOLF 36″ Induction – black glass
Downdraft: Zephyr Sorrento 36″ 500cfm – stainless steel
Oven: BOSCH 30″ electric wall oven – black
Microwave: GE Profile – white
Dishwasher: Thermador 24″
Refrigerator: BOSCH 30″ combo

Accessories/Hardware

Air Vents: KUL Grilles – brushed chrome
Floor Door Stops: DELTANA brushed chrome with black rubber
Door Hardware: Valli & Valli solid brass in satin chrome (Fusitol/Ecostile/Oberon Lever)
Mirrors: Custom cut and polished
Hooks: WS Bath “Glam Collection”
Custom Bench: Cory Robinson in Ash/Maple & Acrylic – commissioned
Quad Art: Beth Guipe Hall – Encuasta Collage – commissioned
Front Entry Area Rug: Capel Carpets “Tabor Collection”
Fireplace Insert: Peterson Real Fyre – 30″ Natural Gas with River Rocks (slate)
Kitchen Pop-up Outlets: LEW with charging USB (black)
Roofing: McELROY standing seam “pre-weathered galvalume” finish
Windows: MARVIN Ultimate aluminum-clad (black exterior finish)
Overhead Doors: Overhead Doors of Indianapolis – black powder coat with 1/8″ tempered glass
Deck Railing: Feeney Cable Rail with black aluminum posts

Plumbing Fixtures

Sinks: Toto “Kiwami Renesse Collection”
Faucets: Kohler “Composed Collection”
Faucets: Hansgrohe “Metris”
Toilet (Powder): American Standard “Boulevard Collection”
Shower Trim: Delta “Vero Collection”
Shower Head: Kohler “Purist Collection”
Door (Shower): Frameless Door + Panels, Chrome Ultra Clear Diamond Seal Glass
Handle-Hinges (Shower): Counterpoint (chrome 18″), Taiga “Habitat Collection”
Toilet (Master): American Standard “Studio Collection”
Urinal (Master): Sloan “Royal Collection”
Laundry Sink: Sterling “Latitude”
Kitchen Sink: ROHL Shaw “Classic” 30 Fireclay Single Bowl – White
Air Switch/Soap Dispenser: California Faucets – white gloss
Kitchen Faucet: BRIZO “Solna Collection” – white gloss

02 Jun 2019

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Back40House

Back40House, located where Pendleton meets Markleville, sits on family-owned land acquired in the 1800’s.

Journal

(Spring 2019): Most certainly, we’re excited to report that the design + construction pricing process is just about complete. Therefore, we anticipate ground-breaking by mid-summer 2019! Without a doubt, we will plan to share the design + construction process and what we learn along the way. So please check-out the ongoing updates below!

(Update 12/2021): We completed construction (substantial completion) in late fall 2020, and our clients have been living in the home for just over a year now. They have had time now to get acclimated and make it theirs (the personal touches). Also, we had the opportunity to start finish photography in late October 2021. We’re so excited to share the images. But these things take-time, so be sure to check-back for updates. We’ll be sharing soon!

(Update 10/2022): Owner is growing wildflowers and prairie grasses on the property, so we can’t wait to make a visit back to see how the environment is evolving. In the meantime, we’ve nominated the project for AIA Indiana architectural design awards. We’re excited to report that the acclaimed jury awarded BACK40HOUSE with a 2022 AIA Indiana Citation Award for Architecture (Category: New Construction Under $5.0m).

Project Info – Back40House

Architecture: HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles
Interior Architecture: HAUS with Client
Construction: WERK | Building Modern
Renderings + Photography: HAUS
Client Page: Back40House
Honored: AIA Indiana 2022 – Citation Award for Architecture (New Construction – Project Cost Less Than $5 Million)

Architect Statement:

History

Back40House was named by our clients to reflect on family-owned property granted in the early 1800s in 160 acre parcels by the U.S. government. Six generations and 200 years later, they claimed the southwest 40 and returned to Indiana from California to design and build their dream home.

They had been away from Indiana for 10+ years, and had been working with Tesla to help develop the Model S. This passion for engineering followed them back to Indiana, where they own a racing team for midget and Formula F entry-level series cars. They also brought their keen sensibilities for Midcentury Modern architecture, interiors, and art. Each was a major influence for our ongoing discussions and ultimate design solutions.

Context

Our client had an exciting vision and a thirst for quality design, but the process was not without challenges. First, how do we most effectively navigate a modern aesthetic into a rural agrarian environment with no immediate architectural context? Second, how do we manage our client’s initial goals of 1,600sf living space for a ‘too-low’ construction cost goal? Third, how do we handle bank financing + comparables/appraisals for a one-of-a-kind project in Pendleton, Indiana? Fourth, as architects + construction managers, how do we handle the onset of COVID-19 right in the middle of the construction process?

The client said they had been following our work for a few years, and pointed-out a few of their preferences inherent in another of our recent design-build projects for inspiration. They also shared with us their previous design-build experience with a production builder, and how they were not satisfied due to inherent limitations with that process. For sure they were looking for overall leadership, and were attracted to the design + construction specialty that we offer between our two related, architect-led companies.

Design Process

Our friendly clients flew-in for a day-long personal introduction, site visit and design kick-off session. The initial design solution orients for site access, approach, and larger vehicle navigation. Primary residence garage and racing team workshop volumes align in a repetitive south-to-north position oriented to the new access drive on the east edge of site clearing. From these modern detached structures, we turned 90-degrees east-to-west to position the primary living spaces in a passive solar orientation. All living spaces are organized around the entry hall with covered access points at each end for effective indoor/outdoor transitions.

Design Solutions

The materiality and details borrow inspiration from the site’s pre-existing structures and antique farm equipment. Vertical rustic-channel wood cladding contrasts with weathering steel, providing an evolving material contrast that helps the art studio and primary suite stand apart. These natural materials continue a humble industrial quality, but are executed with a new level of precision and detail. On the interiors, natural light, site views, and spatial proportion help layer the sequence of spaces. Then from there, inside-out finishes and color further articulate and clarify formal design relationships and client sensibilities.

Regarding size and budget, we helped navigate expectations during the design process. Ultimately we ended-up at 2,300sf finished living space for a higher, but workable construction base cost, plus workshop for an additional allowance. Sustainability Stats – Baseline Energy Use Intensity (EUI): Typical Residential Home (130 Zero Score) – Target EUI: (50 Zero Score) – Projected EUI: (50 Zero Score) – Percent Reduction from Baseline: 60%. Please see photo captions on subsequent images below for more about the overall design and environmental sustainability strategies.

Challenges

After the design efforts, we ran into some issues with financing. Our client’s first two bank contacts fell through; one due to comp/appraisal difficulty, and another due to limitations in other financing requirements. After the second effort fell-through, architect connected client with a previous partner recommendation with success. And with that, we were underway. Smooth sailing? No … 40%-in, COVID-19 hits. Some things did slow a bit, but we were able to navigate the unknowns for this relatively small project where most of the trade contractors and lead-time items were already lined-up. By sticking to the plan with some minor adjustments, we were able to achieve success.

Success: Architect-Led Design, Interiors, and Construction

We feel like this was another good case study illustrating the benefits of architect-led construction for a smaller, more detailed project. After 18 months living in the home, the materials are beginning to show their natural progression and patina. But what really makes it rewarding is how the project is living and the satisfaction of our clients. “OMG!!!!!! I can’t believe we get to live in this beautiful home. I mean, we have appreciated it even before it was built. But to see it from this perspective (the new photos) and the, angles, light, and shadow just BLEW ME AWAY! Thank you, thank you. It’s incredibly overwhelming in the best way. Thanks to you and everyone else that helped make this dream come to fruition. It’s such an incredible honor. We’re feeling so grateful and fortunate.” (Client Testimonial)

Back40House springs to life on approach at sunrise - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — On the Back40House approach, a thoughtful layering of natural, weathering materials becomes evident on the exterior.

Color Site Plan (smaller) - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — East-west oriented primary dwelling is countered with a series of detached garages running north-south. Together, the Back40House volumes frame the north yard and views to the surrounding tree line.

Entry

Primary Bedroom infuses geometric color and natural light - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Taking a few steps further, we discover the primary bedroom and its artfully-appointed interior. We’re immediately drawn to the autumn panorama through the horizontal glazing. Then from the exterior, we can see how the colorful palette permeates inside-out.

Floor Plan

Rooftop open scuppers celebrate precipitation events - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Flat roof rainwater is channeled to custom open-mouth scuppers that won’t clog from site debris – resilient, low-maintenance, sustainable drainage solutions.

Back40House gazes at the sunset on a crisp fall day - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — East-west oriented primary dwelling is countered with a series of detached garages running north-south. Together, the Back40House volumes frame the north yard and views to the surrounding tree line.

Art Studio

North facing Corten-clad volume contains primary suite and art studio flanked by covered porches - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Outside, the studio’s position, windows and cladding highlight its presence in the overall composition. With thoughtful positioning of foundations and framing, the architecture transitions from grounded to elevated.

Covered porch shelters a view to Corten art studio through central hallway to main entry porch - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — The section looking east reveals how Back40Huse kitchen interior echoes art studio exterior. Windows on east and west exposures are minimized and sheltered to limit east-west solar gain.

Straight-on view of kitchen highlights black and Mahogany veneer against bold-colored walls and art - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Central east-west entry hall bisects the opposing butterfly shed and provides indoor-outdoor covered access at each end.

Kitchen view looks north to property and fall foliage - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — New double-glazed, aluminum-clad wood, low-E windows + sliding doors orient to capitalize on best views.

Colorful Palette

Kitchen detail reveals Mahogany veneer cabinetry and orange panel corridor, each inspired by Corten exterior siding - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Looking from kitchen back toward main entry, we go from lighter to darker space; then from darker to lighter. The rich color and material palette permeates throughout.

Entry Porch Detail - Entry Covered Breezeway - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — As one can see at Back40Huse entry, design simplicity often requires complex thought, precise execution, and . . . patience. Details matter. At HUS + WERK, architect-led construction ensures that the deign details become reality.

Corten steel art studio stands proud of adjacent facade - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Client desired a creative space with ample natural light and excellent views. Design + build team highlighted the art studio with shed roof + high ceilings to prioritize north light on the inside. Then exterior cladding and form help studio stand apart on the outside. After move-in, clients added strings to the window exteriors to deter birds.

Pantry storage area wraps south end of kitchen - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Custom Mahogany millwork anchors the Back40House kitchen core, wrapping the corner to reveal pantry prep area with clever return air and window integration. A lot of things have to go right to successfully achieve a work of architecture. A design concept is only successful with client buy-in, then expert detailing, execution and follow-through by all team members.

Kitchen anchors the open living spaces with contrasting wood, stainless, and quartz - Sapele Mahogany - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — New high-efficiency appliances and plumbing fixtures, heat pump HVAC system + water heating, hot water recirculating loop, generator-ready (propane option – no natural gas on-site), and LED light fixtures further contribute to project sustainability and resilience. Garage is prepped for EV charging, PV-ready rough-ins included.

Low Site Impact

South facade highlights layered materials and volumes - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — The structure transitions from grounded to elevated, allowing the existing topography and drainage to remain mostly intact – minimal site impact.

Corten steel entry wall draws the eye to the main entrance between house and garage - Industrial Farm Modern - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — New unvented roof system integrates closed-cell board continuous insulation over deck + cellulose insulation under deck (R-56 or better) + 2×6 exterior walls with R21 blow-in batts + insulated headers – highly-insulated thermal envelope. insulated and conditioned crawl space – area of floating floors are R-56 (blown-in cellulose). Pre-stained rustic channel Western Red Cedar siding is long -lasting for low-maintenance and durability – natural, renewable materials + butterfly shed roofs are light-colored standing-seam – resilient materials + minimize heat island effect.

Workshop

Some History

Long ago, the government granted large plots of land to families in 160 acre parcels. Per below, the land for Back40House has been in our client’s family since the early 1800’s, with 80 of the original 160 acres still family-owned.

From client page:

05 March 2019 – “So we are starting the journey to move back home to Indiana. Our time in California has been great, but our family and friends back home are pulling at our hearts. We have the opportunity to build our dream home on property that has been in our family for six generations. We will be building on the back forty acre parcel that was part of the original 160 acres settled by my family in the early 1800s. So we have nicknamed our future home the “Back40House”. Be sure to follow this page to see it all come together…from a clean sheet of paper and an open meadow, to the home where we will continue to care for the land that our family has cared for over the past 200 years.”

06 March 2019 – “As we will be building on family property, I have been digging in to the history a bit. I found this great map of Adams Township from 1876. Notice the highlighted block then owned by J. S. Davis. That was my 3rd great grandfather John Smithson Davis. The Back40House will be in the south west corner of that plot. We are so grateful that our family has kept this property over the years, and fortunate to have the opportunity to carry on that tradition.”

Historic Adams Township Map - Client Land Plot - Back40House - Marklesville, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Historic Adams Township Map – Client Land Plot – Pendleton/Markleville, IN

Site Visits

Our clients, Brad and Nan were living in California when we began the design process. Brad and Nan flew-in for our first site and design charrette meeting in early February 2019 and we made a productive day of it. We started off the day walking the site to get a feel for the lay-of-the-land. After that, we headed to the HAUS studio for team introductions and an afternoon design-brainstorming session.

Initial Site Visit with Brad and Nan - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture — Initial Site Visit with Brad and Nan – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (February 2019)

Brad Hayes Surveys the Landscape - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Brad Hayes Surveys the Landscape – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (February 2019)

Design Process

Having explored a few ideas and variations, we have settled on the two similar diagrams below that represent the essence of the design direction. Generally, these two variations express a difference in material concept. We have settled on the bottom diagram, allowing the studio-master suite volume to become a special accent material setting itself apart from the predominant material.

Main House is to the lower left, two lateral volumes separated with a central entry hall. And to the right, garage is detached and connected via breezeway/entry porch. Also, to the north, more detached garage volumes continue the same massing and materiality to make-up owner workshop.

Parti Diagram - organization + material concept - central entry + circulation hall - Back40House - Marklesville, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — Parti Diagrams – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (March 2019)

Inspiration – Front 40

Hayes Acres - Design Inspiration - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Hayes Acres – Design Inspiration (Existing Barn on the Front40) – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (June 2019)

Exterior Barn Door (Inspiration - Details) - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Exterior Barn Door (Inspiration – Details – Existing Barn on the Front40) – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (June 2019)

This south elevation view below shows the main living volume in grey siding, and breezeway entry to the right. To clarify, we are exploring an exterior material palette combining naturally-weathered wood + corrugated Corten steel siding. Also, we are planning to keep existing site grading intact and project over the landscape to capture the best views to the south, west, and north. Equally important, in conjunction with dense treeline to the west, deep roof overhangs will provide shelter from prevailing weather and western sunlight.

South Elevation - vertical cedar siding, exposed concrete foundation, corrugated + perforated Corten steel siding, sloping site, new modern house - Back40House - Marklesville, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — South Elevation (Rendering) – Back40House – Markleville, IN (April 2019)

Telling the Story

PreConstruction Interviews - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — PreConstruction Interviews (Clients) – Brad + Nan Hayes – Logan Hayes (Videographer) – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (June 2019)

Site Staking Day

To get our septic design completed, we first needed to stake the building locations. Things ended-up pretty close to where we thought they would on the site plan, but we did make a few adjustments on-the-fly based on topography and existing treeline locations. The surveyors were good to work with and they spotted the grade elevations we needed to make final design adjustments.

Site Surveying + Staking was a group effort - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Site Surveying + Staking was a group effort – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (July 2019)

Survey + Staking Day - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Survey + Staking Day – Back40House – Pendleton, IN – photo by Brad Hayes (July 2019)

07.28.19 – We have septic approvals, and are awaiting building permit review. Albeit, we anticipate having footings in the ground and back-filled by mid-September so we can then be weathered-in by end of November. For sure, we want to be sure we aren’t held-up by the winter weather.

Clearing a Path

This photos below were taken on on the first day heavy equipment showed-up to cut the new access drive and clear a route through the treeline. Soon thereafter, we would be excavating for and pouring footings.

Location for New Site Access - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Location for New Site Access – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

Cutting In Site Access - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Cutting In Site Access – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

Cutting-In New Site Access Drive - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Cutting-In New Site Access Drive – Heavy Equipment (CAT) – Backhoe – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

Excavation Begins!

Excavations Underway - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Excavations Underway (John + Brad Hayes walk the site) – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

Layout and Excavations Begin - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Layout and Excavations Begin – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

Jack is Happy about it!

If anyone is happy about ground-breaking, it's Jack - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — If anyone is happy about ground-breaking, it’s Jack – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

The Frogs are Probably Not happy about it

Bullfrog - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Bullfrog – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

Miniature Green Frog (Site Wildlife) - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — Miniature Green Frog (Site Wildlife) – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

Pumping Concrete

Concrete Pump for Footings - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Concrete Pump for Footings – Back40House – Pendleton, IN – photo by Brad Hayes (August 2019)

Concrete Footings Placed - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Concrete Footings Placed – Forms – Rebar – Back40House – Pendleton, IN – photo by Brad Hayes (August 2019)

Forming Foundation Walls

Foundation Wall Forms Set (Concrete) - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Foundation Wall Forms Set (Concrete) – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (August 2019)

Foundation Walls Complete - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Walls Placed (September 2019)

The massive rectangular footing and foundation on the elevated west-end of the house is under the double indoor-outdoor fireplaces. Since this end of the house is elevated on piers, this footing and wall above it will serve as the primary shear wall on this end. Shear walls keep the building from swaying sideways from wind, earthquake, or wild house parties (housequakes).

One may wonder why would someone come-up with a pier design like this? Good question. We put a lot of thought and effort into designing the piers to be integral and complimentary to the overall building massing. Altogether, we explored a number of variations to arrive at the final solution. Simplicity is always a goal, but this doesn’t look that simple. We joke that it’s a lot of work to make things simple, and simple oftentimes can be more complicated.

Concrete Piers + Two-Sided Fireplace Solid Foundation - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Concrete Piers + Two-Sided Fireplace Solid Foundation (September 2019)

Rough Carpentry Commences

Main Floor Deck Framing Begins - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Main Floor Deck Framing Begins (October 2019)

Garage + Main Platform Framing Progress - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Garage + Main Platform Framing Progress (October 2019)

Workshop Entry Canopy Framing - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Workshop Entry Canopy Framing (October 2019)

Beautiful Rural Indiana - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Beautiful Rural Indiana (October 2019)

Exterior Elevation Framing Progress - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Exterior Elevation Framing Progress (October 2019)

Breezeway Entry Progress - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Breezeway Entry Progress (October 2019)

Studio Wing Framing Progress - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Studio Wing Framing Progress (October 2019)

Getting Weathered-In

South Exterior Elevation - Weathered-In - WRB Weather Resistive Barrier and Windows Installed - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — South Exterior Elevation – Weathered-In (November 2019)

This giant window wall frames a view from the Kitchen island north. During the design process, we put a great deal of thought into how best to frame views inside-out and outside-in. It’s rewarding to see the concepts develop into built form. It’s fun to be an architect.

Oversized Window Installations Complete (Views) - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Oversized Window Installations Complete (November 2019)

A few years ago, we helped a client with their Midcentury Modern house in the Glendale neighborhood on the northeast side. It had the most incredible living space. What made it incredible? Besides the nicely-scaled space, it had the most amazing quality of light. Clerestory windows surrounded it continuously on all sides. We’ll never forget that space, and we refer to it often when designing new spaces.

For Back40House, we’ve incorporated an east-facing clerestory window to bring in a similar quality of natural light. In conjunction with the 12-foot tall vertical slot window in the same space on axis with the entry, we’re really eager to see how the light defines this bedroom and changes throughout the day and from season to season.

Guest Bedroom Clerestory Windows - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Guest Bedroom Clerestory Windows (November 2019)

North Elevations (Snowbound) - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — North Elevations (Snowbound) (November 2019)

Truss Areaway for Ductwork - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Truss Areaway for Ductwork (November 2019)

Flat Roof Design

Although it appears so, not all of the roofs on Back40House are “flat”. The two “bars” are sheltered with 2:12 metal panel shed roofs, one preweathered galvalume, and one Corten steel. Together, these two sheds form a pseudo “butterfly roof” configuration. Flat roof between the sheds collects all water and channels it to the open-mouth scuppers located at porch awnings. This flat-roof connector continues over the breezeway to garage, which also has identical details.

Flat roofs are not really flat, and can have whatever degree of slope we want to design-in. The more slope the better, to eliminate the potential for any standing or pooling water. It’s best to design-in more tolerance to all building systems to allow for certain field-condition variances. And good roof design is not just about slopes and roofing materials. In fact, there are many considerations beyond waterproofing. These considerations include but are not limited to, insulation techniques, ventilation (or not), orientation, drainage management, color, solar gain, penetrations, climate, climate zone, etc.

South Exterior Elevation - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — South Elevation Massing Takes Shape (November 2019)

Breezeway North Elevation - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Breezeway North Elevation – Roofing Underway (November 2019)

Corten Siding Sample

We are using Corten steel for north studio siding. However, this sample below is not what we selected. Instead we decided to use the rounded 7/8″ corrugation profile.

For those not familiar with Corten “weathering” steel, it is designed to rust. Corten’s chemistry allows the rust or patina to form a protective layer that then maintains itself without rusting all the way through. It is designed to last many, many years. See these Dezeen articles about weathering steel to see how beautiful it can be. So when you see the rusty siding, it is by design and meant to give a dynamic contrast with adjacent materials – it clads Nan’s creative studio, and thus deserves some pop!

Corten Corrugated Siding Sample - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Corten Corrugated Siding Sample – Weathering Steel (November 2019)

We are really liking this view – however, there is a framing variation that we need to adjust. Who can spot the variance from the design drawings?

Don’t worry, we’ll get it tuned-up!

Northwest Deck Elevation (Snowbound) - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Northwest Deck Elevation (Snowbound) (November 2019)

Rainscreen Siding Delivery

We are doing a two-tone rustic channel cedar siding that arrives prefinished. This below is the lighter of the two tones. We sampled various products and landed on this option. It’s a bit more brown than the renderings, but wood is brown, folks. The grays were also a bit pricey. The darker of the two cedar sidings (not shown) is more in the gray family – dark color disguises the brown tone a bit more. Accordingly, the plan is to let the woods weather, meaning we are going to let them naturally patina (ie, turn gray).

The Workshop, detached Garage, and south house wing are cedar. However, the north mass is corrugated Corten steel siding (see the “parti” diagram at the top of the story – the yellow mass in the diagram is the Corten siding and roofing).

Prefinished Rustic Channel Cedar siding - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect - WERK | Building Modern, Paul Reynolds, Construction Manager — Prefinished Rustic Channel Cedar siding (December 2019)

Interior Details Underway

Entry to Art Studio features modern pendant lighting, custom cabinetry, and large windows - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Entry to Art Studio features modern pendant lighting, custom cabinetry, concrete floor finish, and large windows (spring 2020)

Powder Room continues materiality and form from facade massing - wall hung sink - linear vanity lights - storage niches - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Powder Room continues materiality and form from facade massing, incorporating hidden storage around perimeter of vanity wall projection. Task and accent lighting highlight the concept (spring 2020)

Guest Bedroom includes built-in wardrobe unit in finish inspired by exterior cladding - clerestory windows balance light into the space - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Guest Bedroom includes built-in wardrobe unit in finish inspired by exterior cladding – clerestory windows balance light into the space (spring 2020)

Living Room interior fireplace enclosure continues Corten theme to interior with vertical Poplar and Boral trims - Exterior fireplace enclosure uses corrugated Corten - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Living Room interior fireplace enclosure continues Corten theme to interior with vertical Poplar and Boral trims. We will wrap exterior fireplace enclosure with corrugated Corten steel (summer 2020)

Two sided fireplace balances inside materials and outside materials - Corrugated Corten steel - custom storage niche blends with window frame in side of fireplace enclosure - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Two sided fireplace balances inside materials and outside materials – Corrugated Corten steel wraps exterior, while painted Poplar and Boral wraps interior. Custom storage niche blends with window frame in side of fireplace enclosure (fall 2020)

Perforated Steel Screenwall Installation

Entry Porch Breezeway Detail - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture - WERK | Building Modern — Breezeway Entry Porch Detail – Back40House – Pendleton, IN (summer 2020) – prefinished vertical Cedar rustic channel siding + Cedar decking, perforated Cor-Ten steel screenwall (summer 2020)

Entry Hallway Features Unique Materials

We wanted to honor the concept diagram, so it made sense to continue exterior materials inside to realize a cohesive design. For the Cedar sided areas, that was relatively easy. But we weren’t sure we wanted to bring the Corten steel inside. We were afraid it would be a bit rough for interior use (staining clothes and the like) and how would we get it to patina inside. After considering pre-patina and sealers, we ultimately decided on a painted vertical poplar detail as indicated below. We also used this detail for the interior fireplace wrap.

For the concrete floors, we used a lightweight concrete over a vapor barrier and wood structure. More recently on the G BLOC project, we cut control joints to control the crack locations (normal industry expectation). The end-result at G BLOC was a success despite a few obstacles along the way. For Back40House, we and Owner decided to not do any joints, and just let it crack where it cracks.

This decision was informed by the concrete supplier advice. They advised that with so many door openings (primarily in the entry hall), it’s going to crack where it wants to crack, even with control joints. We decided on no control joints and saved a few bucks. We did get more cracking in the hallway. Surprisingly, the larger living spaces are virtually crack-free.

For final finish, we filled the cracks with sealant, ground the finish to a terrazzo look, and provided multi-layer clear-coat for a natural gray finish (we will provide finish photos).

Entry Hall brings outside material inside - Back40House - Pendleton, IN - HAUS | Architecture - WERK | Building Modern — Hall brings outside materials inside. Finished vertical Cedar siding (right), Cor-Ten-inspired vertical cladding (left side), concrete flooring (prior to grind/finish) – (summer 2020)

Special Kitchen Wood Veneer

Kitchen anchors the open living spaces with contrasting wood, stainless, and quartz - Sapele Mahogany - counter depth refrigerator with cabinet panel cover - black upper cabinets with hopper doors and concealed range hood - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Sapele Mahogany kitchen anchors the open living spaces with contrasting wood, stainless, and quartz. Counter depth refrigerator to the left is hidden with cabinet panel. Black upper cabinets with hopper doors and concealed range hood blend with quartz top and matching splash surrounds (summer 2020)

We are loving how the kitchen cabinetry details are coming together. We had some issues with the black island top, but were able to get that replaced. This images show a stainless steel finish for the range, but it was supposed to be a black finish. It looked great in stainless steel, and the wait time for replacement was a long wait. Ultimately, Owner decided to stick with the stainless unit.

Cabinet doors and drawers have touch-latch operation.

Corner Window Views

View outside corner window from Living space through west covered porch deck - stainless steel cable railing - Viewrail - black window frames - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — View outside corner window from Living space through west covered porch deck – stainless steel cable railing – Viewrail – black window frames (summer 2020)

Corten Siding Patinas

At north exterior elevation, Corten-wrapped studio stands-out next to the adjacent covered porch - cable rail - Cedar decking - flat roof scuppers - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — At north exterior elevation, Corten-wrapped studio stands-out next to the adjacent covered porch – cable rail – Cedar decking – flat roof scuppers (summer 2020)

Corrugated Corten steel cladding installation begins to patina - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Corrugated Corten steel cladding installation begins to patina (summer 2020)

Scuppers Celebrate Precipitation Events

We’ve been doing a lot of new modern projects on wooded sites. For that reason, we have needed to find low-maintenance solutions that divert precipitation while also considering how to handle debris (leaves, branches). One of our more common solutions is the use of open-mouth roof scuppers. Downspouts and debris screens have a tendency to clog. So, we’ll often design solution that eliminates downspouts completely.

The wide opening will also allow leaves and other debris to fall off of the roof. Sure, we’ll still have branches and other debris that needs to be maintained from time-to-time depending on the site. But this solution will allow water to overflow and not collect on the roof, minimizing maintenance requirements.

View of Master Suite facade from hot tub enclosure - vertical corrugated Corten steel siding patinas - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — View of Master Suite facade from hot tub enclosure – vertical corrugated Corten steel siding patinas (late fall 2020)

South exterior elevation features two-tone Cedar rustic channel siding and corrugated, perforated Corten steel siding - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — South exterior elevation features two-tone Cedar rustic channel siding and corrugated, perforated Corten steel siding (late Fall 2020)

“You guys are masters of the orthogonal”, Paul Puzzello (13 March 2021)

Perforated corrugated Corten cladding shields hot tub area from front entry at breezeway - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Perforated corrugated Corten cladding shields hot tub area from front entry at breezeway (late fall 2020)

View of Back40House on approach from adjacent cropfield access drive - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — View of Back40House on approach from adjacent crop-field access drive (late fall 2020)

Paul Reynolds interacts with people, spaces and dogs - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Paul Reynolds interacts with people, spaces and dogs – Back40House – Pendleton, IN – (November 2021)

Chris Short waves arms around all day in-between photo ops - ironically, even that becomes a photo op - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Chris Short waves arms around all day in-between photo ops – ironically, even that becomes a photo op – Back40House – Pendleton, IN – (November 2021)

Paul Reynolds scopes project photo by cornfield - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Paul Reynolds scopes project photo by cornfield – Back40House – Pendleton, IN – (November 2021)

Chris Short scopes dusk photo on a brisk fall day - Back40House - Pendleton, IN — Chris Short scopes dusk photo on a brisk fall day – Back40House – Pendleton, IN – (November 2021)

Please check back – we’ll be adding to the story (design + construction) including finish photography!

22 Nov 2018

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Modern Villa

A new Modern Villa is in the works in the Old Northside neighborhood in Indianapolis at 1530 Broadway.

We’re grateful to be working on this excellent opportunity with our clients, a builder-developer and physician with two young children. In fact, our client has been building homes for many years, most recently in Fall Creek Place. He has been working with other design firms on these projects. However, they decided for their own dream-home, they would engage a more comprehensive design process with HAUS. Their goal was to design something unlike anything they have seen in Indianapolis, historic or new.

At our first design meeting, our client said this. “I know we can’t do this in Indianapolis, but we really LOVE Parisian apartments and how they feel”. We asked, “What are the qualities of a Parisian apartment that you love?”. “Tall ceilings, white walls, rich textural wood floors, nicely-detailed doors, trims, transoms”. Also “tall windows with breeze blowing through white shear curtains, and vibrant modern art”, we agreed. “Well then, now we have identified the qualities that create that ambiance”. Why can’t we achieve it on your property, minus the view of the Eiffel Tower?”

This was the beginning of a design concept which evolved to blend traditional and modern into one cohesive solution. We’ll be sharing more of the design development in the near future. Currently we are making some final design adjustments to the exterior in anticipation of IHPC-Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission public hearing for final design approvals.

Initial Design Concept

Our initial design concept proposed three traditional building volumes joined with modern infill. Traditional, hipped-roof elements were inspired by French Provincial architecture, with either brick or limestone cladding. Modern components had flat roofs, minimal details, and metal or painted cladding. The traditional/modern mix included intersections and relationships that could resolve themselves in interesting ways inside-out.

Concept Diagram A - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Architects, HAUS Architecture — Concept Diagram A – Modern Villa, Old Northside, Indianapolis

Initial 3D Concept Model (Traditional Carriage House) - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Architects, HAUS Architecture — Initial 3D Concept Model (Traditional Carriage House) – Modern Villa, Old Northside, Indianapolis

IHPC staff suggested that we downsize the accessory structure to be smaller in stature than primary structure. This was contrary to the essence of the original design concept. But our client was intrigued by the idea since it could be a way to also save on construction costs. We as architect were a little less eager to change the architectural concept. Initially we held-on to the notion that accessory structure technically is lower by a few feet. Besides, there are other examples on the Old Northside with larger accessory structures equal or larger in stature than primary. But we knew we had to explore a backup plan. This is because we appeared to be the only ones holding-on to the strict interpretation of the original diagram.

In the interests of efficiency, our client asked that we make some quick adjustments for initial submission. This included cutting-off the carriage house hipped roof and adjusting cladding material from masonry to panel siding. At this time, we just kept the initial window pattern unchanged – a bit unresolved overall. We knew we needed to do more to resolve the adjustments to design concept. Accordingly, we looked forward to the opportunity to refine the architectural diagram and complete the design in due process.

IHPC Hearing 1Client presented the project at IHPC Public Hearing 1, and received several suggestions to advance the architecture:

Perhaps upstairs windows should be 1′-0″ taller considering the traditional front elevation + building proportions (drop the sills).
Provide details for the entry columns/fascia/railing and cornice (for clarity).
Resolve final cladding material palette, particularly as it pertains to the modern rain-screen cladding details (including columns).
Consider metal panel for the non-masonry, modern component cladding materials (fiber-cement panels may not be the answer).
Complete the carriage house design + material palette/details.

So, we were happy for the opportunity to re-engage and complete the design. But first, we needed to modify the concept diagram to consider the carriage house as a modern component.

Concept Diagram B - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Architects, HAUS Architecture — Concept Diagram B – Modern Villa, Old Northside, Indianapolis

Ironically, we were the last to buy-in to a more modern carriage house. Specifically, we still needed to resolve how it fit conceptually. It’s not as simple as cutting-off the hipped roof and changing the color. Traditional and modern window layout could and perhaps should be very different. And what about the resolution of materials? This needed to be a thoughtful solution, but simple. In the diagram above, we tweaked to a 3-color scheme from the previous 2-color diagram. Chiefly, we did this to maintain material and color contrast between loggia and carriage house. Carriage house to far left ties to the darker modern elements in material and form without changing the footprint. From here, we modify materials, openings, and details to resolve a logical and aesthetically pleasing composition.

South Elevation View shows traditional + modern mix with connecting carriage house - Modern Villa - Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture - ZMC Urban Homes - Pat Stroup, Custom Builder — South Elevation View shows traditional + modern mix with connecting carriage house – Modern Villa – Old Northside, Indianapolis

IHPC Hearing 2IHPC Commission voted to approve the project design on 02 January 2019. The only design suggestions pertained to limestone lintel thickness and hipped roof/cornice details on the traditional building components. Commissioner Jim Kienle suggested that the limestone lintel heights at windows/doors increase from 8″ to 10.25″. He also added that perhaps the hipped roof overhangs at tops of cornice could decrease a few inches. We agree that each of these two details could use a little more consideration/refinement.

The question is specifically, what is our inspiration for the two traditional volumes? French Provincial style architecture has inspired our initial concept. We have not delved too deeply into the nuances of the style to this point beyond the basic concepts. However, advancing forward, we believe we can interpret the style with some degree of flexibility. And we agree that subtle variances may affect the feel and technical accuracy of the architecture. We are intrigued by all styles of architecture and the nuances and importance of DETAIL, whether historical or modern. The modern/traditional tension in this design will make for some interesting contrasts inside and out.

Northeast Elevation View - Modern Villa - Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Paul Reynolds, Architects, HAUS Architecture - ZMC Urban Homes - Pat Stroup, Custom Builder — Northeast Elevation View – Modern Villa – Old Northside, Indianapolis

Interior Concepts

Interiors are in-process. In fact, we are happy to report that our client has taken the modern-traditional concept and run with it. This includes the “story” of a historic home in ruins that they have taken, renovated, and woven together in a modern way.

A good collaboration is in the works, and we look forward to sharing how the diagram helps resolve big-picture relationships inside-out. It’s in the details, folks (as long as a strong, big-picture vision has been established first)!

Project Info – Modern Villa, Old Northside, Indianapolis

Architecture: HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles
Interior Architecture: HAUS with Owner
Final Finish Selections: Owner
Construction: ZMC Urban Homes
Process + Finish Photography: HAUS
Renderings: HAUS

Construction Process – Modern Villa, Old Northside, Indianapolis

Excavations, footings, and foundation walls are poured and steel is set. Basement framing has begun, so we are ready to see progress go vertical.

Street (East) Elevation - Foundations + Framing + Steel Progress - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis — Street (East) Elevation (May 2019)

Foundations + Framing + Steel Progress - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis — Foundations + Framing + Steel Progress (May 2019)

South Courtyard Framing Progress - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis — South Courtyard Framing Progress (June 2019)

Massing looks just right in the streetscape. The property to the right was approved by IHPC before 1530 Broadway, but plans changed and it will be delayed. This is a good thing from the standpoint of construction staging for this project.

Northeast Exterior Elevation Framing Progress - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Architects, HAUS Architecture — Northeast Exterior Elevation Framing Progress (July 2019)

The adjacent Victorian to the south sold the 1530 lot to our client, and this house is currently for sale.

Southeast Elevation Context Elevation - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Architects, HAUS Architecture — Southeast Elevation Context Elevation (July 2019)

Interior framing has come along, and we can see how the space feels. This particular space below frames the kitchen. The south-facing clerestory windows bring an abundance of natural light into the heart of the home. Owner will be able to control the light with automated roller-blinds.

Interior Kitchen Clerestory Framing Progress - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Architects, HAUS Architecture — Interior Kitchen Clerestory Framing Progress (December 2019)

Courtyard space is coming along – the lanai, upper walkway, and carriage house will commence soon.

Courtyard Elevation Construction Progress - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Architects, HAUS Architecture — Courtyard Elevation Construction Progress (August 2019)

HAUS originally recommended an ochre brick, but Owner preferred a pinkish tone. This tone really looks good and contrasts nicely with the adjacent Victorian.

Front Street Elevation Construction Progress - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Architects, HAUS Architecture — Front Street Elevation – Brick, Limestone, Windows, Roofing Progress (December 2019)

Front Entry Porch Detail (brick, limestone, zinc, concrete) - Modern Villa Urban Home, Old Northside, Indianapolis — Front Entry Porch Detail (brick, limestone, zinc, concrete) – overlooking Victorian neighbor to the south – porch alignment – porch swing

Please check-back as we will be adding more to the story as it unfolds!

25 Dec 2021

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Scandinavian Modern Interior

Background

Client

We met our Scandinavian Modern Interior clients when they called us in 2018. A doctor couple, they had dedicated their lives to their careers, and were now ready to splurge on their personal space.

Passionate about design and detailed, high-quality solutions, they needed help with a design vision and master plan for their existing residence. They had inhabited their current home for almost thirty years and intended to stay in-place. They wanted to start with a well-designed process to finish-out of their lower level, to-date untouched and unfinished.

Challenge

Our client was interested in a new high-end, modern design vision for the downstairs. Over the years they had considered many ideas and uses, but the solution had not become readily apparent to them. So they began their search for help on the design-side.

They had self-performed some general home improvement projects. In some instances they hired contractors to help complete updates. However, having been generally unhappy with the quality of the work by others, they had chosen to do work themselves for the most part over the last two decades. More recently they had engaged with a contractor who provided an updated entry and stair from main level to upper level.

They wanted a space to support personal well-being, replenishment, and relaxation. It needed to include a new bathroom, media space, workout, dedicated shoe storage, kitchenette, and office nook. Also, it needed more light and a walk-out connection to the outdoors.

Assistance

But they were not sure where to turn to find someone to help with a modern, comprehensive design vision, who communicates clearly, and can then oversee the implementation of that vision.

Around that same time as they were considering what to do, they saw that New Modern House 1 was for-sale. They considered purchasing that property initially. Instead, they decided to just call HAUS. When we met, we learned that we had a lot in-common with regard to dedicated career pursuit, self-reliance, and desire for high-quality. For sure, we understood one-another on a personal level.

We listened to the Owner’s goals to finish the downstairs in a modern aesthetic. While reviewing work others recently completed at interior entry, stair, and railings, we noticed that the stair work appeared to be uneven, and uncomfortable to navigate. Upon further review, it became evident that the work did not meet building code, and was very difficult to traverse due to inconsistency of the treads and risers.

Bad news

We hated to break the bad news, but shared our observation and we discussed options for resolution and how we could help resolve the issue as part of the lower level project. Owner also shared a story about previous water intrusion into the space. Contractors had previously piled soils and landscaping too high onto the existing perimeter walls also with improper drainage. We’d need to resolve that also.

We also reviewed other details, such as the existing HVAC runs, truss structure, and how we could conceal the mechanicals while exposing other areas for a modern, Scandinavian-influenced design solution. In addition, Owner wanted to discuss ideas for reusing some available smooth limestone wall caps previously acquired from a failed masonry wall installation.

Just how could we creatively incorporate all of these goals into the master plan?

Design Plan

The design plan included solutions to tie everything together into a comprehensive whole.

For instance, we designed a completely new stair to connect all three levels of the residence. We opened the walk-out lower-level with new windows + door to the outside. This brought-in 2-times more light and made for a more desirable inside-out relationship.

Also, we left some walls exposed concrete, and added a light gray tint and polish to the exposed concrete floors. To help bring the Scandinavian, we incorporated areas of rift-cut white oak to the exterior walls, cabinetry, and TV wall. The new architectural stair also utilized white oak for stringers, treads, and handrails.

Stainless steel rods closed the open riser gap, and vertical stainless steel cables infilled the guardwall gaps where required to meet building code minimum openings. White-painted Poplar makes-up the vertical guardrails and walls to share light between levels. Also, we worked with Owner and craftspeople to fashion a few custom furniture pieces into the mix.

We concealed HVAC + wire runs behind strategically-placed drywall ceilings and bulkheads. Also, we painted other exposed ceiling black, and added black track lighting to highlight the architectural focal points. The available smooth limestone wall caps create a modern fireplace surround. Precision installation was a must.

Schematic Section Diagram - Scandinavian-Modern-Interior — Schematic Section Diagram – Scandinavian Modern Interior (February 2019)

Implementation

Due to our client’s interest in design and quality implementation, Architect suggested that Owner work with WERK | Building Modern for the construction implementation to make sure that the plan was followed to a “T” and Owner goals were fully realized in the construction phase.

Through the design process, from the big picture down to the minute details, we gained the client’s trust and affirmed that we would be the best fit for executing the design vision of their project. Owner agreed, and we rolled forward with the detailed implementation via WERK.

Even with a thorough design plan laid-out in 3D, we still had more detail design work to complete in working out stair and other details in the construction. Having the architect in-charge of construction meant the Owner received the benefit of design + build in one entity. This definitely streamlined communications and implementation of the details with architect working directly with the trade contractors daily.

Success

In addition to correcting the issues with the previous stair improvements and water-intrusion issues, we also were able to reuse the limestone from previous projects while keeping things on-course during construction, which lasted from May 2019 to early February 2020.

With thoughtful and diligent daily oversight, we were able to bring the details together successfully with cohesive integration of all program elements. Now our client has a place to escape and relax or workout without having to leave the house while they contemplate their next project!

Project Info – Scandinavian Modern Interior:

Architecture/Interior Design/Renderings: HAUS | Architecture
Photography: HAUS | Architecture + Premier Luxury Electronic Lifestyles
Construction Management: WERK | Building Modern

Construction Process – Scandinavian Modern Interior

A Clean Slate:

Here are some existing photos of the existing space. We’re starting with a clean slate, but we’ll need to clean-up some existing conditions a bit before new work begins:

We’ll expose the existing concrete walls designated portions of the space. As a result, we decided to media-blast those locations to remove any dirt and debris. A bit of sealer and the walls are ready!

Walls have been cleaned - Existing Conditions - Exposed Concrete Wall - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN — We have cleaned/media-blasted existing concrete walls – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (June 2019)

In addition to leaving some of the walls exposed, the existing concrete floor is to remain exposed. We also ground the floors to expose some of the aggregate and sand. We’ll re-clad the existing fireplace and convert it to a gas log system. We’ll open-up the exterior wall large windows to bring-in more natural light.

Walls Blasted and Floors Ground - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN — Walls Blasted and Floors Ground – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (June 2019)

Material time:

Materials are arriving for the architectural stair. We’ll construct the exposed portions of the architectural stair with white oak provided by Cox Interiors.

Existing Conditions Materials Arrive - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN — Existing Conditions Materials Arrive – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (June 2019)

Selective Removal – Scandinavian Modern Interior:

While the space was a ‘blank slate’, we did have some demolition work to do to get ready for the new work. This included removing the ancient spray foam that had shrunk, cracked, and turned to dust in many locations; removing old drywall, pulling back the existing wiring, and opening up the exterior wall for the new windows. The project will receive over 200% more natural light as a result of the new openings.

We removed the existing insulation. Spray foam wasn’t always the great product that we know today. The former version did not age well and as a result had contracted, cracked, and crumbled, resulting in either under-insulated areas or uninsulated areas. We brought all project areas up to current standards and above.

As with many renovation projects, we found several other unsatisfactory conditions during the demo phase. For instance, while opening up the exterior wall, we discovered incomplete window flashings on original windows. With the wall opened up and exterior dirt pulled back, we were able to correct these conditions for the new windows. Having the architect involved during construction is a must. Who is acting on your behalf to ensure details like properly-installed window flashings are installed correctly (this time, anyway)?

Time to move:

With the new windows installed, it is time to get moving on more interior items – we are framing walls and working on the stair opening. While modifying the existing conditions, we noticed several conditions that were not satisfactory structurally. Many of the framing members didn’t have proper hanger hardware. Also, in one instance a wall was chopped up in order to run a couple of air returns. We could have minimized delays and ignored those conditions. However, inadequate conditions should never be ignored or covered up without review. We took the time to review each of the conditions with the client and explain why these are not okay. While these fixes ultimately cost additional money, we want to educate the client so they have a clear understanding of the issues and can make informed decisions.

Windows installed - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN — Windows installed – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (July 2019)

Boulder Shoulder – Scandinavian Modern Interior:

Another important element of the space is the refreshed fireplace. Remember when we mentioned that during renovation projects you will find issues buried? While having both of the fireplaces inspected, it was noted that the upper fireplace was built in such a way that it constricted the flue of the lower fireplace. This means in order to have a functioning fireplace, we have limited options and choices of inserts. The current fireplace is wood-burning but we’ll be converting the fireplace to a vent-less gas-insert.

Do you recall us mentioning our client had apprehensions about contracting out labor? Some fifteen years ago, our client built a brick wall to serve as a barrier between their property and the adjacent road. During that project, someone other than our client made a mistake that resulted in the wrong limestone being purchased. Unfortunately, our client got stuck with this extra stone and the bill. Fast forward to today and we are integrating the stone into our design. The new fireplace will be clad in limestone as mentioned earlier. We spent time with the owner, hand-selecting the pieces and picking which pieces are to go where on the wall.

Limestone to be used on the fireplace - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN — Limestone to be used on the fireplace – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (July 2019)

The owner spent time hand-processing and cleaning the pieces of limestone. There are a few pieces that may become custom furniture pieces later in the project but we’ll revisit that. We are sending the stone out for final cutting before it returns for installation.

Coordination Station:

Typically, your CM-Construction Manager is handling all of the coordination of materials and labor that go into your project. If the architect is involved during construction, they’re able to correspond with the CM to ensure any questions and adjustments are made with the design vision in mind. After all, you did pay for the design. Wouldn’t you want to ensure you’re getting exactly that?

If the architect is not involved in any capacity during construction, it’s likely that you will not get the design for which you paid – or even realize the design-intent. Our client immediately recognized the value of keeping the Architect involved during the construction process and hired us as the Construction Manager through our sister-company, WERK. In doing so, we’ve streamlined the communication channels. Architect collaborates directly with trade contractors and Owner without the middle-person.

Stair Base - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN — Stair Base – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis, IN – Indianapolis (July 2019)

Stair Master 3000 – Scandinavian Modern Interior:

The main stair is beginning to take shape now that we have corrected the structural issues. Based on our observations during demolition, we are happy that “they don’t build them like they used to”, haha. It appears that framers were cutting a lot of corners then, figuratively and literally. We are constantly monitoring and double-checking to ensure that we build to the drawings and specifications.

The stair will be one of a few showpieces of the project. It’s important to make sure that we properly execute all of the details to the highest level of quality. If one element is off, it affects subsequent details. The owner mentioned that after-hours he was checking the new framing with lasers. He noted that the tolerances were all within 1/16th of an inch!

Architecture stair beginning to take shape as the vertical framing is installed - Stair Master 3000 - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN — View of Architectural Stair Framing From Above – Stair Master 3000 – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (July 2019)

Vertical Slatwall - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles + WERK | Building Modern — Vertical Slatwall – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (September 2019)

Architectural Stair Detail - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles + WERK | Building Modern — Architectural Stair Detail – Painted Poplar vertical slats, white oak stringers + treads – precision – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (September 2019)

White Oak interior wall cladding with black window frames and exposed ceiling structure - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles + WERK | Building Modern — White Oak interior wall cladding with black window frames and exposed ceiling structure – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (September 2019)

White Oak Interior Wall Cladding Detail - Scandinavian Modern Interior - Indianapolis, IN - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles + WERK | Building Modern — White Oak Interior Wall Cladding Detail – Scandinavian Modern Interior – Indianapolis (September 2019)

13 May 2023

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Modern Penthouse Addition

We’re excited to share the latest design concept for Modern Penthouse Addition in downtown Indianapolis, Fletcher Place.

Our clients purchased this property a while back to house their business operations. But it also houses an existing living space. The new vision will enhance and enlarge the living component, optimizing covered outdoor entertainment space and views to downtown. The new design is shaped to accommodate all programmatic goals while optimizing for solar energy generation, interior natural light, roof drainage, and clear views to downtown.

Please stay-tuned, as we’ll be adding updates for this project as things develop.

30 Sep 2019

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Bridge House

Fennville, MI (Summer, 2018) – We enthusiastically anticipate ground-breaking for Bridge House near the shores of Lake Michigan on a wooded lot in Douglas, Michigan. Our clients have enjoyed vacationing in the area for years, and have thus decided to build their dream retreat to semi-retire to the area, moving from their current home in Zionsville, IN. We have been working on the project since summer 2017, and it has been a pleasure working with these special clients!

This one will absolutely be worth checking back for progress, so we’ll be sure to post regular updates!

(Summer, 2020) – Our clients have been living in the home for about 9 months now. We were fortunate to finally make the trip in mid-July 2020 to enjoy time with our clients in the space! We’ll be sharing new photos of the project over the next few weeks on social media and here!

Project Info – Bridge House:

Architecture/Renderings/Photography: HAUS | Architecture
Interior Architecture/Finishes: HAUS with Marika Designs, Design Studio Vriesman, and Client
General Contractor: TR Builders
Photos + Renderings: HAUS except where noted otherwise
Honored: 2020 AIA Indiana – Merit Award for Architecture (New Construction – Project Cost Less Than $1 Million)
Honored: 2022 AIA Indianapolis – Citation Award for Architecture (New Construction – Project Cost Less Than $5 Million)

Media Links:

History of Pier Cove Beach – Check out this blog/information about Pier Cove Beach and the connected nature and wildlife preserve adjacent to our client’s property.

Dwell Magazine Editor’s Pick (Bridge House) – Bridge House chosen as ‘Editor’s Pick’ by Dwell

Great Lakes by Design: Modern Legacy (Michigan’s role in shaping modern design and modernism in America)

Indianapolis Monthly: Gesamtkunstwerk – This is an indirect but related link to the story of Bridge House. We love Megan’s article about Helmut and Katie, who with Tom Vriesman made the introduction to our client (who is also Helmut’s best friend). We’re sorry to see Form + Function closing, and still cherish the modern furniture we acquired from Helmut beginning almost twenty years ago.

Business Is Back to Pre-Pandemic Levels for Home Remodeling Firms – Bridge House photo featured in this article about the market’s recovery from COVID-19.

Picture Perfect: 34 of the Best Exterior Cladding Looks – Bridge House included in this modern exterior cladding feature with projects from around the world.

Great Lakes by Design: Bridging environments | the award-winning, low-profile retreat that lightly touches its landscape, paying tribute to both its homeowners’ affinity for nature and art. Bridge House published Fall 2021.

Harper Collins Publishers: 150 Best All New House Ideas – Bridge House included – published Fall 2022.

Architect’s Statement:

BRIDGE HOUSE design process began summer 2017 for our clients, neuropsychology + therapy professionals who are long-time vacationers to Michigan. Ultimately, they decided the area would be an excellent location for their next phase of life. Located in Fennville, Michigan, south of Douglas and Saugatuck, the region has a rich history and culture rooted in the natural environment and art.

Interestingly, the acquired land and the adjacent Pier Cove Valley were formerly owned in the late 1800s by the Chicago landscape architect, O.C. Simonds, who introduced many unusual plant species to the area. This area became quite well-known to naturalists in the region for its many varieties of flowering plant species and is now a protected nature and wildlife sanctuary. Pier Cove Creek directly north of the site, drains to Lake Michigan, ¼ mile directly west. This natural preserve affords walking paths, natural habitat, and beautiful year-long views directly from the project site. What a wonderful environment for spiritual and physical reformation; a natural canvas to become immersed in an experience of nature and art!

Context:

In keeping with the area’s rich tradition of looking to nature, it was important to our client that the design for their quaint, humble program be inspired by the unique amenities of the site. Certainly, we wanted to capture valley views to the north and seasonal views northwest to the lake, but also wanted to be sympathetic to the natural condition by limiting our environmental impact and tread lightly on the land. Our clients were also inspired by the rolling topography and the coloration of the trees and their bark. The Black Walnuts stand-out for their darker color, and the Red Pines are distinct in their pattern and coloration. Also, we wanted to be sure to maintain the existing natural drainage swale.

Design Solution:

The design solution positioned the living spaces on an east-west axis to maximize views to the north and passive solar exposure to the south. We pushed the house as far north as the setback would allow, but due to the existing topography, still needed to elevate higher to capture the best views down into the valley while also gathering south light via clerestories. The east end is anchored to the earth under Master Suite and Garage, while the west end is elevated on pilotis above the natural terrain. Accordingly, guests enter the home by way of the elevated entry bridge, inspiring visions of nearby jettys past and present.

The experience begins long before entering the site or dwelling and is friendly to pedestrians, cyclists, and automobiles. The winding roads, lush forestry, and views to Lake Michigan reveal themselves on the journey to Ravine Trail. Not until we are upon the site do we catch a dramatic glimpse of the Bridge House through the trees. The scale of the outside space is defined by the trees and strategic clearing, and the impact of automobiles is minimized. A curious but authoritative hound greets visitors at the foot of the entry pier day and night.

Paths:

Moving through the property, the design focuses paths on views of nature while also accommodating art and artifacts. Primary paths terminate views to nature inside and out, with touches of art, classic furniture, and lighting throughout. The owners, one an artist and both art-lovers, rotate their collection, just as the natural exterior canvas changes hourly and seasonally. The elevated massing and outdoor spaces invite guests to be one with the trees and indulge in this unique experience.

The dark bronze and black exterior cladding was directly inspired by the Black Walnut tree, whose bark varies from mid-gray to dark brown. The natural Cedar decks blend with the pine fin-walls and soffits, natural elements contrasting with the darker shell. Elevated ceiling plane turns downward to become sheltering fin-walls anchoring the west porch literally and figuratively, while providing some protection from prevailing lake-originated gusts from the west.

Sustainability:

New double-glazed, aluminum-clad wood, low-E windows + sliding doors oriented for passive solar. Windows on east and west exposures are minimized and sheltered to limit east-west solar gain – reverse passive solar. New unvented roof system integrates closed-cell board insulation over deck + fiberglass under deck (R-45 or better) + 2×6 walls with full foam air barrier insulation + insulated headers – highly-insulated thermal envelope. Kynar-coated metal siding is long-lasting for low-maintenance and durability (limits damage from insects and woodpeckers) + elevated shed roof is standing-seam in dark anodized aluminum – resilient materials.

Resilience:

White Pine + Cedar clads bridge, fin-wall, porch + living ceilings + wool carpeting – natural materials – indoor/outdoor relationships. Flat roofs are protected with black EPDM – supports heating days over cooling days in local Michigan climate. Flat roof rainwater is channeled to custom open-mouth scuppers that won’t clog from site debris + flat roofs sized for future intensive green roof and solar panel integration – resilient, low-maintenance, sustainable drainage solutions. New high-efficiency appliances and plumbing fixtures, high efficiency gas-fueled HVAC systems, gas-fueled generator, and LED light fixtures further contribute to project sustainability. Baseline Energy Use Intensity (EUI): Typical Residential Home (130 Zero Score) – Target EUI: (50 Zero Score) – Projected EUI: (50 Zero Score) – Percent Reduction from Baseline: 60%

December 2017 – The lakefront area is mostly a seasonal retreat with bed & breakfasts and rental cabins with a sprinkling of full-time residents. So in winter, not many people are around. This day was stunning, but the stiff breeze from the lake was chilling.

Bridge House PreConstruction Site Visit 2 (December 2017) - This Lake Michigan lakefront photo is taken about 1/4 mile from the Bridge House site location - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Lake Michigan waterfront photo 1/4 mile from the Bridge House site location – Fennville, Michigan (December 2017).

Assembling an excellent team that communicates effectively and enjoys working together is a recipe for success.

Bridge House PreConstruction Site Visit 2 (December 2017) Team Photo, Owners (center), Builders (Left), Architect (right) - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — PreConstruction Site Visit 2 – Team Photo, Owners (center), Builders (left), Architect (right) – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan (December 2017).

Note from Dr. Lance Trexler (Owner/Client):

“My wife Laura and I have had a fabulous relationship, but we were coming up on a new stage of life where we really wanted to live in a way that really captured what was most important for us. We specifically wanted a very contemporary feeling that was open, maximized natural light, and set the stage for all of the art that we enjoy. We also wanted to bring nature into the house as much as possible. HAUS and Chris Short immediately captured the goal and created what we feel is not only exactly what we imagined, but much more. We are so excited to see this house evolve.”

Design Phase:

Our first opportunity to see the site in-person occurred in October 2017, early in the design process. It was certainly important that we get a lay-of-the land first-hand. On prior visits, our clients had already verified that Theo and Piper approve of the location!

T.R. Builders

We were fortunate to meet Tom Rigney (T.R. Builders) through another of our clients while working on their Michigan property a few years ago (Gull Lake Island). We enjoy Tom’s excellent communication and sincere interest in good collaboration and were confident that our pre-existing relationship would translate to the Bridge House project . Tom has recently worked on houses by Architects from Chicago and Michigan, including John Eifler, FAIA (Eifler & Associates, Chicago), who is known for historic renovations to homes and buildings by Frank Lloyd Wright, George Maher, Walter Burley Griffin, John Van Bergen and Louis Sullivan. Tom is also just finishing-up a residential project by Norman Carver, Jr, an esteemed Architect from Kalamazoo, Michigan who designed many Mid Century Modern masterpieces from Michigan to Palm Springs, California beginning in the early 1950’s. TR Builders has a great sense for detail, so we are confident having the construction in Tom’s hands.

Design Details

We’ll share more of the actual design process in the coming months. HAUS completed this sketch below in December 2017 as we were nearing the end of the SD-Schematic Design process.

At this point we had explored a few design concept options and were leaning to this one. We had an overall scope established, and were in the process of reviewing budget options with the GC. One goal was to tread lightly on the landscape, and elevate enough to provide an ample view to the natural ravine to the north.

Lake Michigan Cottage, New Michigan Wooded Retreat, Douglas, Michigan, Lake Michigan, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture — Sketch of Design Concept – Bridge House – Lake Michigan – Fennville, Michigan (December 2017)

Parti Diagram - Bridge House - Fenneville, Michigan - Lake Michigan - design concept sketch — Parti Diagram – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – design concept sketch

Piper & Theo with Laura at Site Visit, October 2018 - Bridge House, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — Piper & Theo with Laura at Site Visit – Bridge House, Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by Owner (October 2018)

Bridge House, South Entry Elevation, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Design Development – South Entry Elevation from Entry Bridge – Bridge House, Fennville, Michigan (Lake Michigan)

Bridge House, North Elevation, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Design Development – North Elevation from the Woods/Pier Cove Valley – Bridge House, Fennville, Michigan (Lake Michigan)

Summer Sky at Sunrise on US31 North - on the way to Bridge House, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles - Christopher Short, Architect — Summer Sky at Sunrise on US31 North on the way to Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan (July 2018)

Site Plan - Bridge House - Fenneville, Michigan - Lake Michigan - Pier Cove Valley — Site Plan – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Pier Cove Valley

As depicted in the building section below, the design team with Owner have spent some time developing the interior architecture, with furniture and art integration. Our client has a wonderful collection of eclectic furniture and art that is going to fit right in to this project design and setting. Also, the owner and team is working with LEICHT on the kitchen cabinetry.

For the entry bridge (see left background), we are discussing ways to deal with snow-ice. Perhaps we’ll consider a heating element along bridge length TBD depending on costs.

Bridge House, Building Section, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Bridge House Building Section, Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan (December 2018)

Floor Plan - Bridge House - Fenneville, Michigan - Lake Michigan - Pier Cove Valley — Floor Plan – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan

Construction Phase:

After a long, detailed design and budgeting process, it’s really exciting to see the project finally underway!

As we do with many of our projects, we are planning to share key phases of the construction process here. In general, we find the entire process really interesting. This is because there are so many moving parts and design decisions to be made even during construction.

To be clear, Architect availability and involvement is really important during the construction phase. This is true for almost all construction projects, but especially ones like this involving a unique contemporary design.

The drawings don’t stand alone and may not be perfect. Nor do they detail every important condition; therefore, the construction team will likely require Architect interpretations of design-intent. And with this project in particular, with Architect a 3.5 hour drive away, site visits will not be frequent. However, our client and T.R. Builders have promised to stay in-touch with questions and share progress photos for feedback.

Site Prep

Preparing Building Pad (looking southwest) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Preparing Building Pad Looking Southwest – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (October 2018)

Excavation

Since we had such a natural, untouched, landscape, one original goal was to tread as lightly as possible. As one can see here, the initial excavation is still making an impact. The east portion of the project sinks into the land for basement which anchors the house to the ground laterally. Then the remaining 65% of the house will hover on stilts over the landscape.

TR Builders cleared a few trees for the construction as well, in addition to a few in poor health. In the end, we’ll be able to re-establish the original grades and supplement with native landscape. We are working with a local landscape company on the final site design strategy.

Bridge House, Excavation Looking SSW, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Excavation Looking SSW – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (October 2018)

Forming Footings

Bridge House, Footings Formwork looking Due West Toward Lake Michigan, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Formwork looking Due West Toward Lake Michigan – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (October 2018)

Bridge House, Concrete Footings West Garage Wall Looking South, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Concrete Footings West Garage Wall Looking South, Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (October 2018)

Basement Walls

Basement walls have been completed, so next steps are to include garage area + bridge piers.

Bridge House, Garage + Basement foundation walls completed looking due East from future location of entry bridge, Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Garage + Basement foundation walls complete (looking due East) – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (October 2018)

Pier Footings

Concrete Support Piers Underway (looking north) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Concrete Support Piers Underway (looking north) – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (November 2018)

TR Builders called us while they were working on pier forms to clarify a few things. Albeit, we’re glad they called, because as we were looking back at our drawings it forced us to review and cross-check some things. Specifically, the foundation drawings had a few discrepancies on pier heights that we were able to correct in-time. Without a doubt, this was a good catch by the team and will enable us to achieve exterior siding + deck fascia alignments as intended.

Concrete Support Piers Underway (west end looking south) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Structural Support Piers Underway (west end looking south) – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (November 2018)

Concrete Piers Complete (ready for backfill - looking northeast) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Concrete Piers Complete (ready for backfill – looking northeast) – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (November 2018)

Backfill Operations - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Backfill Operations (looking northwest) – Bridge House – Douglas, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (December 2018)

Pier Anchor Installation - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Pier Anchor Installation (looking west) – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by Owner (December 2018)

Bridge Beam Details

With a unique design, there are atypical conditions that need special attention in the deign process and construction, like the pier condition below.

For this design, it was important to us that the siding and deck fascia maintain a continuous alignment around the perimeter. Since the siding overlaps the plate and top of basement wall a bit on the basement areas, it needed to maintain the same elevation at the pier conditions. To accomplish this, we design the tops of perimeter piers to drop lower than top of basement walls to allow siding to pass unimpeded by the piers since piers may stick-out proud of wall finish conditions (we didn’t want to have to raise the siding or cut around the piers in these areas).

During the pricing process after we completed the design drawings, the team agreed on all engineered wood beams in lieu of the original steel beams proposed by structural engineer (cost savings and simpler to install/coordinate). We did not completely update all drawings and details to reflect an all-wood condition, which led to some misunderstandings about how to frame the perimeter beams. Architect had detailed perimeter beams to shim-up from the dropped perimeter piers to achieve the aligned siding condition and keep trims clear of piers. And whether steel or wood beams, the designed beam bearing heights were to remain unchanged, still in alignment with all other joists and trusses.

However, the structural drawings indicated a different typical detail for wood-to-pier connection that didn’t reference pier or beam elevations, or the Architect’s details noted above. So as indicted in the photo below, perimeter LVL beams were dropped over the accompanying piers to more closely resemble the structural detail.

Team Review

Once we noticed, we reached-out to Builder to review the condition and make sure we were on the same page regarding the design intent.

Architect was concerned that we didn’t have enough space under the beams for a cladding material and drying space for the beams. Builder shared their strategy to shim between beam and hardware with stainless steel shims to get the beams and floor laser-level. These shims will raise the beam up a bit from the pier and hardware. According to builder, they have already completed this work. So we are looking forward to seeing the progress and floor deck installed.

For the finish condition, we (Builder and Architect) agreed to wrap the beam undersides with brake metal to match siding. This solution will be very close to the original intent as the dropped beam will still be behind the siding, and the thin brake-metal beam cladding will not touch the concrete piers. We think this is a good compromise since the floor framing had already progressed forward.

This detail and related communication seemed to get a lot of people riled-up. We’re happy that the build team takes as much pride in their work as we do, and look forward to ongoing progress and constructive dialogue about the details.

LVL Beam Installation - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — LVL Beam Installation (looking east) – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by Owner (December 2018)

Rough Framing Begins - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Rough Framing Begins – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by Owner (December 2018)

Floor Framing Complete

Floor framing appears to be complete, and perimeter walls are speeding forward! Exterior deck framing will come later (see far-right deck piers). Notice the insulated headers in the lower left corner on the ground. This is an important detail on all projects in colder climates!

TR Builders sourced lumber from Builders First Source Northeast in Portage, Michigan (Contact: Adam Bradley). All interior floors are wood trusses with built-up LVL beams over piers. Photo below shows floor truss framing over the basement foundation.

Framing Progression (view from NE corner looking W SW) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Master Suite and Living Spaces Framing Progression (view from NE corner looking W SW) – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (January 2019)

Zip System Sheathing is really making inroads in the wood-framed marketplace, and we’re happy to see it installed on Bridge House. We considered other framing methods during the pricing stage (like SIPS), but elected to stick-build based on budget. However, we did go with 2×6 walls to enable more insulation. Besides, the taller living room walls needed thicker studs anyway based on height and roof loading.

Framing Progression (E looking W) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Garage Framing Progression (E looking W) – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (January 2019)

Photo below shows front elevation with horizontal kitchen window to the right. It seems weather has been a bit warmer than usual so far for a Michigan winter, and no huge snows (yet – knock on wood).

Framing Progression (view from S looking W NW) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Framing Progression (view from S looking W NW) – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (January 2019)

It’s fun to see walls going-up and dream becoming reality!

Framing Progression (W looking E) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Framing Progression (W looking E) – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (January 2019)

Wall Framing Status Update

Framing Progression (NE looking W) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — View from master suite looking west/southwest – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (January 2019)

Framing Progression (SW looking E) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Front south elevation looking east – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by TR Builders (January 2019)

Most of the roofs are flat on this project. So to get the water off, we are utilizing sloped trusses sloping a minimum of 1/4″ per foot. And since we are expecting debris on such a wooded site, we have designed wide-mouth open scuppers to allow water and debris to flow off of the roof to the site free of downspouts. We’ll position boulders at-grade in these areas to manage erosion.

We’ll not be ventilating the flat roof areas. Instead, we’ll insulate to a minimum R-25 above roof deck with closed-cell polyisocyanurate or extruded polystyrene board insulation (to avoid condensation concerns per code). From there, we’ll install balance of open-cell insulation on the underside of deck to achieve the final agreed R-value.

Even the view from the garage is stunning!

Framing Progression (view from Garage looking east) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — View from inside garage looking east – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by T.R. Builders (January 2019)

Exterior Enclosure Framing Nearing Completion

The overall enclosure is just about framed, and crews are finishing-up details in anticipation of window arrival. The Michigan winter has most certainly arrived, complete with frigid temps, wind-chill, and snow.

Framing Progress (South Elevation looking NNE) - covered entry porch- Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — View from southwest looking north toward covered entry porch – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by Owner (February 2019)

Interior Transom + Kitchen Window Framing Progress - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Interior Transom + Kitchen Window Framing Progress – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by T.R. Builders (February 2019)

Entry porch perches above and overlooks existing topography drop-off, providing view through trees to Lake Michigan in winter months.

Framing Progress (West Elevation looking ESE) - covered entry porch- Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Framing Progress (West Elevation looking ESE) – covered entry porch- Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by T.R. Builders (February 2019)

Window Installation Completes Rough Enclosure

North exterior elevation below elevates just enough to provide the best views to the deep natural ravine to the north. Crews just installed windows this week (Week of February 25th, 2019), so along with exterior sheathing and temp roof protection, crews are most certainly happy to focus on inside work. Next week temps are going to be brutal.

Framing Progression (North Elevation looking South) - black Marvin Windows - deep roof overhangs - covered porch -wooded lot - concrete piers - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Framing Progression (North Elevation looking South) – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by T.R. Builders (February 2019)

Cladding Progress (North Bridge Looking West) - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, Tom Rigney, TR Builders — Cladding Progress (North Bridge Looking West) – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan -photo by T.R. Builders (May 2019)

South Exterior Elevation - Extra Dark Bronze Metal Corrugated Siding Progress - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan — Extra Dark Bronze Metal Corrugated Siding Progress (south elevation looking north) – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – photo by Owner (July 2019)

North Deck Overlook - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan — North Deck Overlook – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – photo by Owner (September 2019)

Kitchen Interior - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan — Kitchen Interior – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – photo by Owner (September 2019)

Bronze Dog Sculpture - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan — Curious Friend Greets Visitors at Foot of Entry Bridge – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – photo by Owner (September 2019)

South Entry Bridge - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan — South Bridge Entrance – Bridge House – photo by Owner (September 2019)

Laura, Piper, Theo exploring the north property - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan — Laura, Piper, Theo exploring the north property – Fenneville, Michigan – photo by Owner (November 2019)

Pandemic-Time Greeting Card - Bridge House - Douglas, Michigan - Lake Michigan - HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles — Pandemic-Time Greeting Card – James Brandess Studios & Gallery, Inc. Saugatuck, Michigan – www.jamesbrandess.com – Bridge House – Fennville, Michigan – Lake Michigan – Card from Owner (March 2020)

We will continue with updates, so please check-back for the latest Bridge House news!

11 Aug 2016

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G BLOC Modern Live + Work

G BLOC Modern Live + Work is a new development in Broad Ripple North Village that includes a mix of commercial office, urban residential lofts, and covered parking. It is located on a small city block at 841 E 64th Street. We enjoyed the public process that began in early 2016 and worked toward a solution that most effectively meets the multifaceted urban design goals of this excellent location. It was an engaging and stimulating dialogue with the neighborhood and the City in an effort to balance the desire for pedestrian engagement and more mixed-use density fitting Broad Ripple’s Envision Plan while also managing flood-plain requirements. The location (formerly 6367 and 6371 Guilford) is just a few feet from the Monon Trail and borders Guilford, 64th, Cornell, and Main.

Project Info – G BLOC Modern Live + Work:

Architecture/Interior Design/Renderings/Photography: HAUS | Architecture
Construction Management: WERK | Building Modern
Leasing: Thomas English Retail Real Estate
Developer: G BLOCK, LLC – G BLOC Property Website
Honored: 2023 AIA Indiana – Merit Award for Architecture (New Construction – Project Cost Less Than $5 Million)

Media Links:

Indy Midtown Magazine: G BLOC mixed-use development

IBJ-Indianapolis Business Journal: Three-story mixed-use project in Broad Ripple gets balky feedback from city

Architectural Stair - Co-Working Interior - Monon Trail - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village - Indianapolis — On entry to G BLOC Co-Working space, the skylight space vaults to reveal the architectural stair and loft overlook.

From where did the name, G BLOC, originate?

We initially gravitated to the name, ‘G BLOCK’, because it was a small city block with properties fronting Guilford Avenue. Later as the development concept evolved into mixed-use, including a co-working component, we changed the spelling of “Block” to “BLOC”, in the spirit of creating a supportive environment of collaborators.

G BLOC

G = Guilford Avenue

BLOC = a combination of groups sharing a common purpose, acting together in mutual support.

North Exterior Elevation - View down Cornell Avenue from 65th Street summer evening May 2023 - vibrant streetscape - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles - Construction Manager, WERK | Building Modern, Derek Mills - Thomas English Retail Real Estate — View down Cornell Avenue from 65th Street – G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST, Indianapolis – Broad Ripple North Village (May 2023)

G BLOC East Exterior Elevation - View from The Line/64th Street + Monon Trail - vibrant streetscape - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles - Construction Manager, WERK | Building Modern, Derek Mills - Thomas English Retail Real Estate - metaCRE — G BLOC East Exterior Elevation – View from 64th Street + Monon Trail (May 2023)

Detail View of Cafe + Bar from Loft Above - Co-Working Interior - Monon Trail - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — View of G BLOC Co-Working Cafe from loft above – office tenants have access to a full assortment of beverages and snacks.

Northwest Exterior Elevation - Large Aluminum-clad black-frame wood windows, white EIFS, black metal corrugated galvalume siding Guilford + 64th Street - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — Exterior facade includes greenscreen walls to help meet the transparency requirements. At the time, public art as defined by an artist or architect could supplement that particular zoning requirement. Since the building is in a flood zone with BFE (Base Flood Elevation) more than 5-ft in some locations, we needed to minimize the number of window/door openings on the base level. The greenscreens help soften the pedestrian experience while continuing the building’s opening pattern.

West Exterior Elevation (sunset) - Large Aluminum-clad black-frame wood windows, white EIFS, black metal corrugated galvalume siding, Guilford Avenue + 64th Street - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — The central west-facing entrance consolidates three doors in-order to allow a singular flood-gate to cover that side. One door is direct stair egress, one leads to trash + sprinkler room, and one leads to lease/storage space. Integral flood gate tracks accommodate a 12-ft wide custom flood gate.

Primary Conference Room - Co-Working Interior - Monon Trail - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — G BLOC Co-Working includes a mix of conferencing spaces. The large conference room includes hybrid conference/meeting capabilities (newer AV not shown here).

West Exterior Elevation (dawn) - Large Aluminum-clad black-frame wood windows, white EIFS, black metal corrugated galvalume siding, Guilford Avenue + 64th Street - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — Question: Why does the ground slope-up to the building to some degree on all sides?
Answer: The pre-existing site slopes from side-to-side, corner-to-corner. Zoning requirements for MU-2 dictated a maximum building height of 35-feet. So to achieve the desired building heights, we needed to increase the effective average base height relative to how we calculated the average building height to the roof surface. Parapets, skylights, and elevator towers were allowed to exceed the height limit.

Shared Balcony Overlooking Monon Trail + Private Phone Booth Rooms - Co-Working Interior - Monon Trail - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North VillageRooms - Co-Working Interior - Monon Trail - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — For those in the open-office space needing privacy, G BLOC provides private phone booths and conference rooms. Also, the balcony overlooking the popular intersection at 64th/Cornell/Monon Trail is a great casual working space.

Southwest Exterior Elevation (sunset) - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — Question: But what about the building form? From where did that originate?
Answer: We applied for variances for height, clear site triangle, and zoning classification. We achieved the rezone to MU-2, but were not successful for encroachment into clear-site triangle or building height exceeding 35-ft. The angled facades on the four corners are a direct response to the clear-site triangle requirement.

Typical Loft Kitchenette + Dining - Monon Trail - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — G BLOC Residential Lofts include oversized windows with shades, and custom kitchenettes.

Detail View of Cafe + Bar - Co-Working Interior - Monon Trail - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — Cafe kitchenette + booth detail

Cafe Booths - Co-Working Interior - Monon Trail - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th ST #201, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village — The Cafe booths are a popular place for meetings, laptop work, and lunch.

North Exterior Elevation (dusk) - large aluminum-clad black-frame wood windows, white EIFS, black metal corrugated galvalume siding, office balcony, aluminum overhead parking garage door, treated siding, Monon Trail + 64th Street - G BLOC LIVE + WORK Development, 841 E 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220 - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill — From the northside, 64th Street exterior elevation, we can see the main building entrance to the left, and parking level entrance to the right.

Architect’s Narrative:

G BLOC Modern Live + Work is a new speculative, market-rate development in Broad Ripple North Village just a few steps from the Monon Trail at 64^th Street/Cornell that includes a mix of commercial office, urban residential lofts, and covered parking. The name “G BLOCK” was initially a reaction to original properties fronting Guilford Avenue, together taking-up a small city block. As the project planning evolved, development team changed the name from “G BLOCK” to “G BLOC”. G = Guilford Avenue. BLOC = A combination of groups sharing a common purpose, acting together in mutual support.

The project was initiated by a two-person development team (an architect and a developer), who partnered to lead the acquisition, entitlements, design, permitting, construction management, property management, and subsequent sale … all in-house. The project fills a need for office space in the area while enhancing community connections and accessibility for a previously under-developed piece of real-estate. The development has contributed density, scale, vibrancy, tax revenue, a diverse/professional workforce, and creative design to an important community intersection and location promoting its ‘live-work-play’ aspiration.

The team encountered quite a few challenges during the process. During entitlement phase, team worked closely with BRVA (Broad Ripple Village Association) to address their concerns about parking, pedestrian engagement, and architectural design. After several rounds of dialogue and a 4th design concept, BRVA voted to support the project. Planning Department staff however, stayed firm that the proposal was too intense for its location. With the support of BRVA and other community stakeholders, the Board of Zoning Appeals granted the rezone from C-4 to MU-2. But with a close vote of 3-5, they denied variance requests for height and clear-site triangle. So it was back to the drawing board for a final design option!

The biggest design phase challenges were related to the flood-plain, the high-voltage power lines, the stormwater storage requirement, and the height + clear-sight requirements. How could we navigate the restrictions while still maximizing the site enough for it to work financially AND create a work of architecture? During the construction phase, inherent challenges remained (lack of staging area/compact site/working around power lines/winter conditions), and new challenges emerged (permitting delays, COVID/construction delays, break-ins/vandalism). The entitlements process took 18 months, design process 5 months, and permitting another 5 months.

From a design standpoint, the obstacles were an interesting challenge. From a development and construction standpoint, they were frustrating obstacles. We were not sure how we would be able to solve what seemed at times to be an insurmountable number of road blocks. But since the development team consisted of the broker, architect, construction manager, and property manager (who were also tenants), most aspects of the project were run and managed in-house. The team was determined to make it work and solve the challenges, which they eventually did.

The site design wedges the footprint into the existing site geometry minus power-line + property line setbacks and clear site triangle areas while finding the right use mix and square footages to hit the required parking count. From there, the architectural concept and forms focused on highlighting entry, views and natural light. Building massing was articulated to alternate a two material massing and cladding interrupted by slots (pinwheel concept), with corners focusing views (up Cornell + down Guilford). We oriented main entry and covered outdoor space to a now-vibrant intersection at 64^th/Cornell to address the Monon Trail. Garage bay access from 64^th Street sets-in to allow vehicle stacking without blocking general traffic. All entryways are sheltered from weather and fitted for flood gates.

Vertical slots house balconies and mechanicals. Due to flood plain / BFE (base flood elevation) 5-ft above lowest level, we limited main level windows and consolidated openings into 4 total flood gate-protected areas. We combined “dry” and “wet” flood-proofing solutions for a hybrid, flood-resistant building, which helped result in an elevated level of resiliency. Also, even with the flood zone hurdles, we still had to meet the transparency requirement, which we did by utilizing the Public Art (green-screen grids) exception in lieu of normally-required openings, which would have required a cost-prohibitive number of flood gates.

To achieve desired building heights, we raised grade-level surrounding the building and married the architecture to the landscape. The faceted building façade is reinforced visually with sloping parapet walls. Then at the base, a thoughtfully-sloping grade continues that motif in complimentary fashion. Despite the pre-existing and new grade variations, we were able to add and enhance existing sidewalks on all sides of the development – improving community connections and accessibility. Primary exterior materials (corrugated metal panel and EIFS) contrast to highlight the massing concept. On the interiors, natural light, site views, and large windows support a simple modern character inside-out.

During construction, to compensate for added costs in some areas, we found savings in others. For example, we cut-short the original stair towers designed to serve a future 4^th floor while maintaining features to support an additional floor level in the future. When COVID hit, progress did slow-down, but we were able to navigate the unknowns and achieve success by mostly sticking to the plan.

Locally-sourced trusses, wall panels, and steel fabrication reduced waste, transportation, and cost. Continuous insulation and air barrier seals and blankets exterior. Lightwells + oversized windows illuminate building core and maximize natural light. On-demand water heaters and high-efficiency HVAC satisfy heating and cooling needs. Underground stormwater retainage significantly reduces volume/release. Large structural spans support flexibility and adaptability.

Despite the challenges, it was a rewarding process for the team to see it through and use the space for their business offices. Construction cost was $130/sf, including co-working FFE (not including anchor tenant build-out, site acquisition and soft costs). In early 2023, the building’s anchor tenant purchased the entire building and is planning more improvements to support their ongoing business expansion.

G BLOC Modern Live + Work – PreDesign Process (Journal):

Background

2014-2015 – We most recently became interested in the Broad Ripple North Village area while working with one of our clients to design and build a new brownstone-inspired home on Ferguson Street. This particular client lives in an exclusive gated community in Carmel, and were about to become empty-nesters. For that reason, they wanted to live in a vibrant, walkable community with lots of amenities and restaurants, and acquired property to make that happen. Some immediate plans changed for that project and it went on-hold, but it’s still out there and we are looking forward to a re-engagement.

2016 – We gained control of the properties at 6367 and 6371 Guilford, and began conceptualizing development options. Our first BRVA Land-Use and Development Committee meeting was in March 2016 to introduce initial ideas to the BRVA Zoning and Land-Use Committee to begin a constructive dialogue and gather information. This scheme included 30 loft apartments on levels 3 and 4, office space on level 2, and primarily parking on level 1.

BRVA was good about communicating their concerns (parking should be out of sight but enough provided possibly to exceed the zoning requirement, pedestrian engagement is very important, please include a retail component, we don’t really want to knock-down the historic homes on the site, how tall is it, and we’re not sure we like your design quite yet). This was a good introduction to community stakeholders, and we went to work from there to respond to the mostly constructive feedback that we received.

Early Scheme Southeast Corner (March 2016) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, WERK | Building Modern, Thomas English Retail Real Estate — Early Scheme Southeast Corner (March 2016) – G BLOC MIXED USE Development – Broad Ripple North Village – Indianapolis

Public Process

Our next round of development focused on concealing the base-level parking and integrating a ground-level retail component per BRVA request. We also had time to develop the architectural concepts a bit more. We could see that parking may be the biggest challenge in enabling enough density for project feasibility. This next concept incorporated a mix of two-story townhomes (possibly live-work), a reduced number of loft apartments, office, small retail or cafe, and parking.

BRVA still appeared to have strong opposition to the proposal. For instance they suggested still not enough pedestrian engagement, too massive, don’t want to demolish existing structures, and concerns with parking. Also, BRVA did not appear to consider the significant challenge that the flood-fringe factor will play. On our side, we knew that satisfying everyone was going to a monumental challenge, especially if we counted ourselves and financial feasibility.

Southwest Corner Early Scheme (June 2016) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, WERK | Building Modern, Thomas English Retail Real Estate — Southwest Corner Early Scheme (June 2016) – G BLOC MIXED USE Development – Broad Ripple North Village – Urban Infill – Indianapolis

Design Character

Architecturally, we began to define what the building should be (in our eyes). BRVA did not agree (“it’s too boxy” “too modern”, “too tall”, “not enough pedestrian engagement”, live-work will never work”). The sites were in zone C-4, which allows up to 65-foot height; however, we proposed to rezone to the new MU-2 Category per Indy ReZone, adopted in April 2016. MU-2 allows up to 35′ in height, but BRVA Envision plan recommends up to 4-stories and 40-feet.

We ended-up taking a break in summer 2016, and then came back to BRVA in November. We had refined the concepts some, but no major differences from the prior meeting. Some on the BRVA were hoping for more significant design concept revisions. This was our 4th trip to see the land-use committee. From here, we engaged zoning consultants and submitted our applications with the City (late 2016-early 2017).

Early Scheme Southwest Corner (November 2016) – G BLOC Modern Live + Work – Broad Ripple North Village – Urban Infill – Indianapolis

BRVA Support

2017 – Planning staff opposed the development proposal (“too intense for its location”, “parking concerns”). After several meetings, it became clear that staff was not going to support the rezone or variance. Our only chance was to do what was necessary to achieve BRVA support and proceed with the City process. We didn’t expect hearing officer to contradict staff, so we looked forward to Board of Zoning Appeals hearing.

So, we went “back to the drawing board” again to see how we could create a more “village-friendly” architecture. We redesigned the exterior for a more “village-friendly” character and scale. In addition to adding gabled roofs, we deleted the 4th floor and raised the main floor to accommodate more storefront. With these changes, BRVA voted to support the project, but only with a long-list of agreed stipulations.

Thank you to Colleen Fanning, Thomas Healy, and other local business owners for your support, including writing letters and speaking on behalf of our rezoning efforts.

Planning Department + Board of Zoning Appeals

We were not able to achieve City Planning Department staff or hearing officer support as of 08.10.17. On 09.06.17, the Board of Zoning Appeals Commission voted to support the rezone from C-4 to MU-2 (5-3 vote). However, they voted against the variances (building height + clear sight triangle) (3-5 vote). On the bright-side, City did not adopt BRVA stipulations since they did not approve variances. In hindsight, this may have been the most beneficial outcome for this development.

We still really don’t understand why staff was against our proposal. Above all, we understood a primary intent of Indy ReZone was to encourage higher-density development in urban areas, discouraging sprawl. The resistance to an additional 5-feet of building height and maintaining clear site triangle is dumbfounding (to us) at best. We documented 40-50 instances in the immediate area that don’t follow current clear sight requirements. And City has approved several new development proposals much greater height, including 70-feet directly across the Monon Trail. The clear-site triangle requirement is automobile-centric, which is contrary to initiatives focused on the pedestrian. Each of the intersections abutting our property have all-way stops; therefore, there is no need for strict adherence to clear sight triangle. Its adherence seems in conflict with the creation of a nicely-scaled pedestrian experience.

Flood Fringe Area

Despite our initial claims to the contrary, neither BRVA or Planning Department appreciated the significant hardship for developing the site. This hardship pertained to the flood plain and associated FEMA requirements. On the technical design side, this was all a fascinating challenge. On the development side, it was a major hurdle and hardship on most levels. Certain members of the Board of Zoning Appeals tried to coax us to highlight the flood zone hardships more-so. Without a doubt, we didn’t emphasize that issue to our advantage in the variance hearing. We’ll be sharing more about the what we learned during this process, so please check-back for updates.

We presented the gable-roof design below to City + Board of Zoning Appeals.

Early Scheme Southwest Corner (Sept 2017) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, WERK | Building Modern, Thomas English Retail Real Estate — Early Scheme Southwest Corner (Sept 2017) – G BLOC MIXED USE Development – Broad Ripple North Village – Urban Infill – Indianapolis

G BLOC Modern Live + Work – Design Process

Final Design + Zoning Coordination

Since achieving the rezone, we have developed a completely new design concept (again). This new direction meets the now-defined zoning criteria, including the clear-site triangle, parking, transparency, and height. Furthermore, we have designed the scheme to accommodate a future 4th floor. As we delved deeper into zoning exceptions, we learned to leverage certain components, including skylights, parapets, towers, and surrounding grade. However, we’ll still need a variance for the future story.

Zoning rules have forced us to adapt and modify some pedestrian-engagement amenities in favor of other requirements. For instance, height limitations and flood-plain requirements forced us to implement some of our original directions. In addition to sinking the base level partially into the earth, we moved the primary building entry back to the northeast corner oriented to the Monon Trail. Despite the numerous challenges, we are excited about the refined direction as the newest design solution is a true contextual response shaped by numerous forces (physical, cultural, political). As of 12.31.17, we have the newest and final design concepts just about completed.

Main Building Entrance North Elevation Design Development (Dec 2017) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, WERK | Building Modern, Thomas English Retail Real Estate — Main Building Entrance North Elevation Design Development (Dec 2017) – G BLOC Modern Live + Work mixed-use development

Northeast Corner Design Development (Dec 2017) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, WERK | Building Modern, Thomas English Retail Real Estate — Main Building Entrance East Elevation Design Development (Dec 2017) – G BLOC Modern Live + Work mixed-use development

Aerial Illustration - G BLOC Live + Work - Indianapolis, Indiana - Broad Ripple North Village — Aerial Illustration – G BLOC Live + Work – Indianapolis, Indiana – Broad Ripple North Village

Exploded Axonometric Architectural Concept Diagram - G BLOC Live + Work - Indianapolis, Indiana - Broad Ripple North Village — Exploded Axonometric Architectural Concept Diagram – G BLOC Live + Work – Indianapolis

2018 – During the CD stage, we have made further refinements to the design that we will be sharing soon.

Permitting (Drainage)

It was a long, drawn-out permit review process, but we finally achieved permits in late summer 2018.

Our civil engineer had advised us to get a head-start on the drainage-review process, as it’s good to cross that bridge early. Unfortunately, the drainage design process and approvals didn’t go as planned. Our engineer’s initial design strategy was not accepted by the City, nor was the second. As the correspondence on these first two drainage concepts/reviews took a few months, the balance of architectural permit applications were by then also underway and running parallel to drainage review.

One point of contention with the drainage design between engineer and City of Indianapolis was that we were being asked to reduce the preexisting site runoff significantly more than the engineer anticipated. The design didn’t just have to ensure no additional runoff, but instead, it had to reduce current runoff quantities of the existing site by a significant amount. So what ended-up being required included significantly more detention volume than anyone on the design team expected. 100% of the new building roof-runoff is detained. Surrounding site runoff is not detained.

Tight Site

The site is tight, and setbacks minimal. Earlier designs located stormwater detention piping along the perimeter of the site. However, with the increased volume requirements, these initial locations would no longer work. So instead, we decided our best option at that point was to run a detention vault down the middle of the parking garage. And instead of utilizing composite corrugated vaults, we needed precast concrete vaults to achieve the required volume in such a tight space.

From there, we had to lower footings adjacent to the structure based on the vault depth. Also, as we were coordinating other permits (sewer, ILP, structural), other related design elements were still in-play. So there were a number of overlapping issues affecting the permitting process, with multiple levels of review, but eventually we made it through. However, the permit approval process took about 4-5 months longer than we anticipated, pushing us into cold weather conditions to start the actual construction.

Contextual Site Plan - G BLOC Live + Work - Indianapolis, Indiana - Broad Ripple North Village Cultural District — Contextual Site Plan

G BLOC Modern Live + Work – Construction Process

Site Demolition

We completed site demolition + mass excavation in early October 2018.

Guilford Streetscape Pre-Demolition (October 2018)

West Elevation Demolition of South Building - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — West Elevation Demolition of South Building (October 2018)

Site Demolition (Rubble Pile/Water Hose) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Site Demolition (October 2018)

Mass Excavation - Soils Compaction - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Mass Excavation + Soils Compaction (October 2018)

Layout + Footings

Here, we are beginning site layout , excavation, and reinforcing. Based on contractor availability, we weren’t able to begin footing work until December 2018.

Since our footings were going to remain open through winter, we decided it best to pour thick grade footings to weather winter freeze conditions.

Grade Footing Detail - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Grade Footing Excavation + Rebar Placement (December 2018)

The footing sequence was slowed by cold weather, as each round of excavation, inspection, and placement had to occur daily so the bottom of excavations wouldn’t freeze if left-open overnight. So the footing progress was segmented in that fashion, with one day’s placement followed by the next, with reinforcing tie-ins from one sequence to the next. And of course, we needed to blanket the concrete for cold-weather cure.

Footings Progress (Concrete Frost Protection Blankets) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Footings Progress (January 2019)

During elevator pit excavation, we began to encounter some degree of groundwater or seepage from surrounding soils. To offset, we dug deeper, verified soils compaction, and then poured a lean-mix of concrete to stabilize the base. Soon thereafter, we reinforced and placed the designed pad and walls.

Elevator Pit Taking Ground Water - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Elevator Pit Taking Ground Water (January 2019)

Elevator Pit Foundation Reinforcing Installation - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect, HAUS Architecture For Modern Lifestyles, WERK | Building Modern, Thomas English Retail Real Estate — Elevator Pit Foundation Reinforcing Installation (January 2019)

CMU Mobilization

Late January/early February is not the best time to start concrete masonry work, but that was next in-line, so we plowed forward nonetheless. Here below we can see some initial mobilization and subsequent stair tower progress.

CMU Contractor Winter Mobilization - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — CMU Contractor Winter Mobilization (February 2019)

Stair Tower CMU installation - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Stair Tower CMU installation – East Stair Tower (February 2019)

CMU Mobilization, Weather Protection, Scaffolding, Winter Weather - CMU Cold Weather Procedures - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — CMU Mobilization, Weather Protection, Scaffolding, Winter Weather – West Stair Tower (February 2019)

Steel Fabrication

While site masonry work was underway, steel fabrication was in-progress in the steel shop. CMU and steel had to interface in sequencing, which created some degree of scheduling complexity.

Steel Shop Fabrication - Welding - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Steel Shop Fabrication (March 2019)

CMU Towers Rising – G BLOC Modern Live + Work

CMU Stair + Elevator Tower Topping-Out - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Concrete Masonry Unit East Stair + Elevator Tower Topping-Out (March 2019)

CMU Procedures Site Conditions (it's a muddy mess for the lull) - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — CMU Site Conditions (it’s a muddy mess) (April 2019)

Stormwater Detention Structure

Steel Ready for Delivery

Steel Fabricated for Site Delivery (steel yard photo) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Steel Fabricated for Site Delivery (April 2019)

Concrete Slab Placement – G BLOC Modern Live + Work

Parking Garage Concrete Pour + Finish - Vapor Barrier - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Parking Garage Concrete Pour + Finish (June 2019)

Tower Crane Ready to Roll – G BLOC Modern Live + Work

Tower Crane - Steel Installation - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis - Christopher Short, Indianapolis — Tower Crane – Steel Installation Resumes (July 2019)

Truss Fabrication Underway – G BLOC Modern Live + Work

Truss Fabrication Plant (actual project truss fabrication underway) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Truss Fabrication Plant (actual project truss fabrication underway – July 2019)

Wood Truss Fabrication (Yard Stock ready for site delivery) - G BLOC MIXED USE Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Wood Truss Fabrication (Yard Stock ready for site delivery – July 2019)

We will fill-in the time gap here when we are able, so please be sure to check back for the updates!

Cover Images - Cafe View from CoWorking Loft - G BLOC Modern Live + Work - Mixed Use Development - Broad Ripple North Village - Urban Infill - Indianapolis — Cafe View from CoWorking Loft – G BLOC Modern Live + Work – Mixed Use Development – Broad Ripple North Village – Urban Infill – Indianapolis (February 2021)

Please check back for updates, as we’ll be keeping this post up-to-date!

13 May 2023

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Ridge House

Ridge House is a new single family project to be located in Bloomington, Indiana, east of the campus of Indiana University.

Our clients were looking for an isolated location to retreat and entertain. This particular property is heavily wooded with mostly dramatically-sloped terrain. The intent is to build directly adjacent to the existing highest grade/site ridge existing on the property.

Please check-back for updates on this exciting project!

28 Mar 2016

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Midcentury Modern Renovation 2

We are happy to report that Midcentury Modern Renovation, buried in the woods adjacent to Williams Creek and Meridian Hills, is now complete! As a result, we would like to thank an excellent team that that helped make the vision a successful reality. Above all, thanks to our MCM-fanatic clients for another chance to work together, this time to help create the dream-home they have sought-out for years.

Media Links:

Dezeen Magazine: Haus overhauls midcentury modern home in the Indiana woods

Mod-Abode.com: Mid-Mod Makover

Dezeen Magazine – Five of the best houses in Indiana on Dezeen

Curbed Article: 1950s Home Gets Contemporary Overhaul in Indiana

Inhabitat: Midcentury modern home focuses on sustainability

Dwell Magazine Editor’s Pick (MCM 220)

The Spruce: 9 Mid-Century Modern Living Room Ideas

ARCHELLO: Midcentury Modern Renovation 2

MCM Daily (FB Page Post)

Atomic Ranch Magazine – MCM220 “Out of the Woods” Featured in Renovation Issue – June 1, 2022 (see print edition)

Atomic Ranch Magazine - Mid Century Marvels - The Renovation Guide - June 1, 2022 — Atomic Ranch Magazine – Mid Century Marvels – The Renovation Guide – June 1, 2022 – Cover

Great Lakes By Design: Recaptured Modern (see print edition)

Great Lakes By DESIGN - Volume 2 Issue 4 - Cover - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture — Great Lakes By Design (Cover) – Volume 2 Issue 4

Living Magazine: A House in the Woods

Living Magazine Cover - 2018-October - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture — Living Magazine (Cover) – 2018-Oct

Project Info – Midcentury Modern Renovation

Architecture: HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles (Chris Short + Derek Mills)
Interior Architecture: HAUS with Design Studio Vriesman (Tom Vriesman)
Construction: Wrightworks (Christopher Wright)
Landscape Architecture: A2 Design (Eric Anderson)
Photography: HAUS
Published: 2018 Dezeen Magazine
Honored: 2019 AIA Indiana – Merit Award for Architecture (Preservation/Adaptive Reuse/Renovation)

Process – Design Process

Before Photos

We will be uploading more “before” photos in the near future, so please check-back for updates.

The questions with many residential renovation projects is, “how far do we want to take this?” “Will it be like a new home?” “Is it easier and less expensive to just build new?” “Or is it better to rebuild to our specifications in this desirable location?”. We discussed all of these questions and more during the design stage. Ultimately, our client had committed to purchasing the property prior to engaging with the design team. So when we engaged the design phase, we reviewed big-picture design options focused around client’s thoughtful list of prioritized goals. And by all means, we didn’t hold back too much in the brainstorming phase. However, we kept the best ideas addressing priorities and budget while down-scaling some of the negotiables.

Before Exterior Photograph - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture — Before Exterior Photograph – Midcentury Modern Renovation – 81st Street, Indianapolis

Here below is the project site plan. Please check back, as we will plan to share more of the design process, including a few big ideas and concepts.

Site Plan - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture — Site Plan – Midcentury Modern Renovation – 81st Street – Indianapolis

Building Section - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture — Building Section – Midcentury Modern Renovation – 81st Street – Indianapolis

Construction Progress – Midcentury Modern Renovation

Demo + New Framing

Construction kicked-off in summer 2016 and subsequently, the project achieved substantial completion by mid-2017.

This Bill Wright original design stood as a time-capsule from the 1960s, until now experiencing only minor alterations from the original build that originated in 1959. Prior to our involvement, most of the original finishes and materials remained untouched, if showing the wear of the prior five decades. While existing cork floors, custom wood built-ins, galley kitchen, and floor-to ceiling windows remained in fair condition, original Redwood siding was compromised with insects and woodpeckers. Furthermore, the surrounding landscape was overgrown and encroaching on the house, and previous owners had sold-off portions of what was originally a larger plot.

Mid-century Modern Renovation 2 — View from the Woods – New Screened Porch Slab Installed – Midcentury Modern Renovation, Indianapolis (early summer 2016)

As with many homes from prior decades and even this Midcentury gem, we decided to open the space more to maximize views, light, and family engagement. To that end, our solution included the incorporation of new steel structure concealed inside the pre-existing roof structure. Equally important, the LVL supporting the steel beam in the window-wall beyond enables maximum glazing and natural light for the open-concept kitchen. Without a doubt, opening the kitchen to the main living space will be a major enhancement.

Screened Porch Addition

As with many older buildings, the roof and structure needed some attention. But first, we needed to extend and cantilever the original roof structure to shelter the new screened porch. To that end, we were able to achieve the extension with 2×10 joists matching original structure, cantilevering them over new steel beams/columns, designed to be exposed. Exposed steel was a pre-existing motif from the original house at main entrance, so as seen below, we continue that modern motif in the screened porch extension.

Roof

In this south view of the porch extension below, we can see an increase in the “flat” roof-edge thickness. This additional thickness is for the purpose of supporting a complete re-roof, enabling repairs to deck, allowing for proper roof-slope to drains, and adding a minimum R-24 insulation above the roof deck (check local Codes and weather zone). With proper design, roofs don’t require ventilation, which can be more efficient than ventilated roofs. To that end, we have found that many in the construction industry don’t understand the basic building science behind non-ventilated roofs, particularly as it relates to moisture management. So if you are investing in residential or commercial renovation or new construction, please be sure you are working with qualified professionals.

Site

Accordingly, the site or location is often the primary reason to purchase a property. Undeniably in this case, both site and house were inspirations, as this property affords beauty, privacy, and enough natural light in and around the Midcentury dwelling.

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - view from screened porch — View from screened porch – Midcentury Modern Renovation, Indianapolis (Sept 2016)

Rough-ins

The construction team removed all interior finishes down to slab and studs. Likewise, they saw-cut and patched concrete slabs for plumbing and modified roof structure to achieve open-concept and achieve more interior natural light. Also, we infilled the original main entry porch to create the “Everything Room” and a conditioned entry between Garage, Mudroom, and house. In contrast, the team elected to maintain the existing masonry fireplace and chimney, with only upgrades to the floating cast-in-place hearth slab.

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Kitchen Area Progress — Kitchen Area Progress – Midcentury Modern Renovation (Sept 2016)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - February 2017 Exterior — Exterior Progress – screened porch framing and fascias/soffits nearing completion – Midcentury Modern Renovation, Indianapolis (Feb 2017)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Screened Porch View — Screened Porch View – Cedar framing installations underway – Midcentury Modern Renovation (Feb 2017)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Ceiling Fireplace Collar Detail — Ceiling Fireplace Collar Detail @screened porch – Midcentury Modern Renovation (Feb 2017)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Entry Skylight — Entry Skylight (Feb 2017)

Interior Finishes

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Interior Progress (Living Dining Kitchen) — Interior Progress – Living Dining Kitchen (Feb 2017)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Walnut Veneer Closet Panels - Finishing — Walnut Veneer Closet Panels – Finishing (Feb 2017)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Master Closet Installation — Master Closet Installation (Feb 2017)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Master Vanity Installation — Master Vanity Installation (Feb 2017)

Custom Built-ins

This Midcentury closet detail below is one of many refined retro-modern features at Midcentury Modern Renovation 2. Hence, the team incorporated book-matched Walnut veneer millwork at Entry, Kitchen, Bedrooms, Vanities, and TV Room to continue this timeless, Midcentury vibe. Spring has sprung and Owner has moved-into the project even while mostly exterior work continues forward.

Hard and soft-scaping continues outside, and we are particularly eager to see installation of final exterior finishes. As one can see, we have maximized exterior windows to capitalize on the scenic panorama.

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Exterior Progress — Exterior Progress (Spring 2017)

Landscape

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Inside Out Entry Wall — Inside Out Entry Wall (Spring 2017)

Privacy walls are a predominant motif in Midcentury Modern Architecture, and so we utilized a screenwall to achieve multiple project goals in one move. For instance, the entry wall (see photos above and below) serves multiple purposes: one, to frame entry court with material continuing outside to inside, and two, to frame a private outside courtyard. This allows larger bedroom openings to maximize south light while achieving both privacy and security. One move, multiple benefits.

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Inside Out Entry Wall Become Privacy Fence — Inside-Out Entry Wall Become Privacy Fence (Spring 2017)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Private Moss Garden - Christopher Short, Architect, Indianapolis, HAUS Architecture (A2 Design) — Private Moss Garden (late Summer 2017)

Midcentury Modern Renovation 2 - Outside In Entry Wall - Christopher Short, Architect, Indianapolis, HAUS Architecture (A2 Design) — Outside-In Entry Wall (late Summer 2017)

Details

Playful child bedroom with colorful cubbies and wall storage, complete with world map and reading books, Natural wide plank white oak flooring, plush area rug, Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture, Jamie Sangar Photography — Playful child bedroom with colorful cubbies, Jamie Sangar Photography (October 2017)

Original Mid Mod Fireplace, modern furniture, large red area rugs, custom artwork, retro furnishings, inside out brick wall, exposed brick, leather side chairs, linen sofa, wide plank oak flooring, Walnut kitchen cabinets, Quartz tops grey, ceramic artwork, orange teapot, stainless steel range hood, kitchen skylight, Saarinen bench, Saarinen wine cart, pendant dining lights, custom Walnut live edge dining table, Eames shell chairs, floor to ceiling window wall, wooded site - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture, Jamie Sangar Photography — Dining space looking out to the woods, Jamie Sangar Photography (October 2017)

As shown below, skylights add a nice touch to the middle hallway and other spaces that don’t benefit from exterior windows. These two skylights openings were original to the house, and in this case, we upgraded to new units.

Daylighting with skylights creates even light in hallway, wide plank white oak flooring, art on clean, white walls with minimal trims, - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture, Jamie Sangar Photography — Daylight pours into the hall, Jamie Sangar Photography (October 2017)

Foyer greetings from custom art and furniture, grey slate entry floor tile, colorful, red area rug - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture, Jamie Sangar Photography — Foyer art greets guests, Jamie Sangar Photography (October 2017)

Original Mid Mod Fireplace, raised concrete hearth, modern furniture, large red area rugs, custom artwork, retro furnishings, inside out brick wall, exposed brick, leather side chairs, linen sofa, flokate pillow, wide plank oak flooring - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture, Jamie Sangar Photography — Modern furniture with clean lines, Jamie Sangar Photography (October 2017)

Master Spa Bathroom, Walnut vanity, quartz top, subway tile shower, teak shower floor, custom tile niche, full height Walnut master closet doors, bathroom skylight, slate tile flooring, hidden pocket door, clear glass shower enclosure - Midcentury Modern Renovation - 81st Street - Indianapolis, Christopher Short, Architect, HAUS Architecture, Jamie Sangar Photography — Custom niche foot rest, Jamie Sangar Photography (October 2017)

Haus midcentury modern renovation in the Indiana woods

by Jenna McKnight (Dezeen) 6 February 2018

New exterior cladding, a moss garden and a multipurpose room are among the updates to a 1950s residence in the American Midwest revamped by design studio Haus.

The project, called Midcentury Modern Renovation, is situated on a wooded property in Indianapolis encompassing just under an acre. The surrounding area is known for the presence of several exemplary Midcentury modern dwellings built in the 1950s and 1960s. The clients purchased the midcentury modern home – built in 1956 and designed by Bill Wright of the Indiana firm Vonnegut, Wright, and Porteous – in 2015, after leaving a note for the owner expressing an interest in buying the property if it became available. “A few years later, the call and opportunity finally arose,” said Haus, a local architecture studio.

The three-bedroom home had remained unchanged over the decades with the exception of minor renovations in 1967 by the original owner, who lived there until 2013. The client charged the architects with enlarging and renovating the low-slung dwelling shaded by mature trees. “Having worked with this client on their previous mid-mod renovation project in 2011, we were excited about the prospect of working with them again on something more comprehensive,” said Haus.

The clients presented the team with a list of goals and priorities. The initial planning process included Haus, an interior designer and the owners, who together conceived various options for the 2,260-square-foot (210-square-metre) dwelling, which was in dire need of repairs.

Exterior

Woodpeckers and insects had damaged the original redwood siding, and the home’s flat roof required significant upgrades. The interior also called for an overhaul. “This house needed everything,” said the architects. “The wooded site and location in the city was excellent, but the house was 60 years old with mostly original finishes and fixtures, including original cork floors, and excellent examples of custom wood built-ins that didn’t fit the new vision for refurbishment.”

Sitting atop a concrete foundation, the wood-framed home was re-clad in vertical-groove, poly-ash siding with a smooth finish. Strips of cedar with an ebony stain were used for the entrance area and a dog run. The team installed a new membrane roof that channels stormwater to “rain chains” on the side of the home. Owner and Architect retained and refurbished existing roof overhangs. Haus revamped the main entrance, adding an “inside-out entry wall” that frames the entry sequence and a garden. The same-style wall fronts the bedroom wing, helping provide privacy and security while still allowing natural light to pass through large windows.

Interior

Inside, the team made a series of modifications. The entrance features slate tile flooring and a wooden wall that mimics the exterior cladding. The client specifically requested a new flexible area – dubbed the “everything room” – which the team added just off the foyer and serves as a mudroom, dog area, laundry room and a crafting workspace. In total, the team added 340 square feet (32 square metres) of space to the residence.

The open-plan living room features an original brick fireplace with a cantilevered concrete hearth. The team fitted the room with wood flooring, white walls and an eclectic mix of decor. Similarly, the kitchen and bedrooms feature a range of motifs and materials. “A mix of period and more modern furnishings pair nicely with the interior finishes, lighting and fixtures to achieve a re-imagined interior respectful of the home’s roots and reflective of the owners’ aesthetic and lifestyle,” the team said.

Throughout the residence, floor-to-ceiling glass provides unobstructed views of the verdant lawn and surrounding woods. A screened porch with a black stove serves as a sheltered area for relaxing and feeling connected to the outdoors. The team also modified the landscape around the dwelling. Owner strategically cleared trees and underbrush to allow more natural light into the home, and modern hardscaping and vegetation, including a moss garden, help “articulate the indoor-outdoor connections”.

Architect’s Statement:

A years-long search for the perfect Midcentury Modern property to renovate finally paid-off for a family of three and their dog. Hidden in the woods near the Williams Creek neighborhood in Indianapolis, this 1956 original designed by a respected local architectural firm remained virtually unchanged except for minor renovations in 1967. Undoubtedly, this was an ideal canvas to help our Midcentury -enthusiast clients carefully re-imagine a home to embrace an updated modern lifestyle.

In its 2015 condition, the existing house needed everything. The wooded site and location in the city were excellent, but the house was over 60 years old with mostly original finishes and fixtures and an overgrown landscape. Our clients had been planning something like this for years, and they had a thoughtful list of goals and priorities. Their primary desire was to achieve a calm, serene, organic space, bringing the outdoors in and indoors out. Maintaining privacy was important, as was the goal to respect and embrace the original architecture.

On the outside, pruned trees and cleared underbrush allow more natural light to the site and interior. New modern hardscape + landscaping extend the indoors outward, helping to enhance and articulate the indoor-outdoor connections. Main entry encloses the pre-existing covered breezeway space and introduces an architectural wall that frames the entry garden. From there the entry wall extends further outward to frame a moss garden around the bedrooms. This horizontal, smooth cedar wall helps with privacy and security while maintaining a view and access to south light.

On the backside, a refined fascia extends further to cover the screened porch addition. New membrane roof and extra deep roof overhangs channel stormwater to new rain-chains flanking screened porch for a sensory experience during storms. All exterior sidings and fascia trims utilize a painted fly-ash composite. This screened porch addition helps frame the new terrace accessible and visible from the porch, family room, kitchen, and dining.

On the interior, the new entry gallery is sized and positioned to greet both visitors and residents with adjacency to front door, mudroom, and garage. Mudroom, aka “Everything Room”, includes space for coats, laundry, dog, and crafting. Dog run for “Otis” is just outside, detailed to match moss garden privacy wall. The inside-out entry wall transitions to form the interior custom walnut cabinetry inside, both at entry gallery and kitchen. Newly-positioned skylights help achieve balanced interior daylighting throughout, much like the original. Original brick masonry fireplace with refinished cantilevered concrete hearth remains, anchoring the opened-concept living spaces against the panoramic window wall. The south portion of the plan includes modestly-sized bedrooms, bathrooms, a family room, and the screened porch, each modified or added to meet new requirements.

Interior finishes include a mix of slate + wide-plank oak flooring on an original concrete slab. Slate tile floors adorn the entry including the front walk just outside the entry door. All new millwork is custom walnut veneer. A live-edge walnut table anchors the dining room, with complimentary reupholstered Eames shell chairs. The bathroom utilizes simple neutral glazed ceramic tile, with solid surface tops. Other furnishings include a combination of reconditioned reupholstered sofas and chairs and other period and modern accessories and light fixtures to achieve a re-imagined interior respectful of the homes roots and reflective of the owners’ aesthetic and lifestyle. Every inch of the space has been redone, including new driveway, windows, roofing, siding, landscaping, and all new interiors including new plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.

Sustainable features include embodied energy from reclaimed structural elements (original slab-on-grade, wood structure, and fireplace). We replaced original direct-glazed inefficient windows with new double-glazed low-E floor-to-ceiling windows for high-efficiency daylighting. New unvented roof system integrating closed-cell board insulation over deck + fiberglass under (R-45 or better) replaced outdated flat roof/insulation + damaged decking. We replaced and added new skylights for enhanced natural interior daylighting. We replaced original small south-facing windows with full-height, high-efficiency windows to allow passive solar rays to heat interior spaces in winter. New high-efficiency plumbing fixtures, HVAC systems, and LED light fixtures further contribute to project sustainability. Light-colored roofing reduces heat-island effect. Resilient , low-maintenance materials (fly-ash siding and trims) clad the exterior. Exterior and interior natural materials include Walnut cabinetry, oak flooring, and Cedar privacy/entry wall.

01 Jul 2018

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Vintage Modern Garage

Background

Our clients for the Vintage Modern Garage project contacted us in early spring 2016 to assist with the design for a new large-scale, freestanding workshop to compliment their 1950’s Midcentury Modern residence that they had just recently acquired in the Lakeside neighborhood on the northwest side of Indianapolis. They were looking for the right architect to match their overall aesthetic initially for the garage. In addition, they needed oversight of the primary residence renovations, including interiors. So, HAUS assisted with an overall master plan respecting the Midcentury spirit of the original home and site.

The new garage location was to replace a former in-ground swimming pool that had just recently been removed. The topography of the site and garage location was a challenge, but these unique opportunities usually help inspire something extra in the end product, and we saw great potential for refinement at this already established property. This home has an intriguing story that we will let our clients tell later, but they essentially rescued the property from its prior illicit occupancy, with a prior owner extraction involving the DEA.

Before contacting HAUS, client had already hired a general contractor and landscape designer/builder. One of the biggest project priorities was budget. They had already begun some design scopes with the contractor and landscape company. However, they felt they needed more help to achieve strong architectural design concepts to compliment their vision for the Midcentury Modern site. We are happy that client invited us to help. Helping achieve a comprehensive design vision is what we do best.

Design

When we design, we keep budget in-mind, but we have to let the ideas flow freely; we know we can always dial-back the scope or complexity. The key is to be sure to come-up with an excellent idea. From there, we work-out the details and see how it can fit the budget. If the design solutions motivate the client, they may also consider increasing the budget. For many of our projects, it can be a compromise of all those options (size, complexity, quality, timeline, budget).

The workshop design solution maximized the footprint and height allowed per zoning while working to compliment the original primary structure up the hill. The sloping topography of the site made connections between house and accessory structure challenging, requiring retaining walls which became an integral part of the architectural design solution. Workshop and lower level of house are essentially aligned, and the former house auto court (original garage was at basement level of house) will become an outdoor garden terrace connecting house lower level to new auto workshop.

The architecture of the workshop compliments the house with the use of a shed roof that pops-up revealing a 3-sided translucent acrylic clerestory wrap that reveals the wood wall + roof structure while flooding the interior with natural light. Clear glass overhead doors reveal the vintage cars inside while allowing more views and light. Finishes compliment the original house with gray and stained siding a match to house. Furthermore, concrete retaining walls compliment house limestone cladding.

The initial phases of this project including most exterior and interior scopes are complete. Our client is still continuing forward with some details on their own time. Please check-back as we will be adding to the story.

Project Info – Vintage Modern Garage:

Architecture/Renderings/Photography: HAUS | Architecture (Chris Short + Paul Reynolds)
General Contractor: Thrine Construction
Landscape Design/Build: Start to Finish Landscaping, Inc.

Media Links:

Photo Flip: 100 Fall Exterior Postcards from Houzz

Design Process – Vintage Modern Garage

Stay tuned for more updates, as we will be adding to this story, including the design phase and before-photographs.

13 May 2023

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Modern River House

Modern River House is a new single-family residential project to be located in Fishers, Indiana along the elevated banks of the White River.

Our clients have owned the property for a lengthy period of time in anticipation of building their dream home when the time is right. This project is inspired by client travels and local influences.

Please be sure to check-back for project updates!

13 Nov 2016

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Scandinavian Rustic Cabin

Scandinavian Rustic Cabin located in Carmel, IN began master planning first of the year 2015, and re-construction was completed before the fall holidays.

The design of this 1990’s shingle-style rustic cabin was primarily based around the desire for a more open and light-filled interior, with better connections to its beautiful site. It was a really interesting and ongoing design-dialogue … how to effectively mix pre-existing rustic features (log-cabin walls, brick floors) with new modern features (cabinetry, fireplace surrounds, details, hardware). The same questions came up over and over for each specification, finish, and detail. Should it lean more rustic, more modern, or somewhere in-between? The contrast between rustic and modern details and materials provides for a rich and unique experience inside and out with a result that in many ways reveals a Scandinavian vibe mixed with Rustic.

We have just begun to document this project, so please check-back as we will be posting periodic updates, Owner feedback, and backstory.

Project Info – Scandinavian Rustic Cabin:

Architecture/Interior Design/Renderings/Photography: HAUS | Architecture
Construction Management: Blaze Construction

Progress – Scandinavian Rustic Cabin

Owner forwarded an evening photo of the living room fireplace that we modified with a new hearth + steel cladding and light reveal – #ambience

Scandinavian Rustic Cabin Modern Steel Fireplace - HAUS Architecture, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect — Scandinavian Rustic Cabin Modern Steel Fireplace

01 Dec 2015

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Minimalist Modern

Minimalist Modern House is located in Indian Head Park, a suburb southwest of Chicago. Specifically, this project on Hiawatha Lane is in an area experiencing redevelopment of preexisting home-sites.

We initially met our client in 2013 where we helped design a master plan to renovate their property in Monon, IN on Lake Schafer. Ultimately, they decided to focus on their full-time residence in Chicago rather than their weekend property. Indeed, to begin that process, they initially engaged with a local Chicago design firm recommended by their original contractor.

Months later, client reconnected with HAUS to request design feedback and possible project oversight to completion. We were happy to help offer some big-picture suggestions inside-and-out to help pull the initial ideas together into a comprehensive design solution. Albeit, our client needed final design input for their purposes and also for community approvals.

New Minimalist Modern House

Project Info:

Client: Svabaitis Chicago Residence
Architecture: HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles with Joe Trojanowski Architect PC
Interior Design: Client with some HAUS advice
General Contractor: Illinois Designers & Builders
Photography: HAUS

Media Links:

23 small escapes for fans of Beatles, Coltrane, Mozart & Co. (scroll to #20 “Music Studio in Dim Light”)

Photo library: 60 cozy beds for prolonged mornings (scroll to #51 for Minimilist Modern bedroom)

Design Process – Minimalist Modern House:

Once engaged, we were able to clarify an identifiable architectural concept from preliminary development provided by Joe Trojanowski Architect PC. HAUS and Trojanowski worked together as a team with client to pull the final concepts and details together.

Accordingly, residential construction plans in Chicago area require an architect or engineer of record (or stamp). For this reason, it made most sense for Trojanowski to remain Architect-of-Record and finish what they started with HAUS oversight as “design architect”.

Albeit, Trojanowski had already begun a very detailed technical draft of plans. However, these drawings were more geared toward achieving permits and less geared toward a complete architectural vision. So for that reason, HAUS focused on conceptual ideas, materials, and related details resolution inside and out. Concurrently, Trojanowski focused on permit requirements, technical drawings, and structural coordination.

Front Elevation Rendering -Minimalist Modern House - Indian Head Park - HAUS Architecture, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect — Front Elevation Rendering -Minimalist Modern House – Indian Head Park – HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles

Rendering views completed above and below by HAUS included suggestions for exterior materials, exterior window adjustments, some subtle refinements to parapet heights, and wall locations. Ironically, this design process was similar to many of our renovation projects. This is because we already had a preexisting design that needed some review. So, as with many of our renovation projects, our primary objective was to essentially simplify and edit. We worked to clarify relationships and connections inside and out to help inspire decisions for material and form within the preexisting massing and layout concepts already established.

Design Details

On the inside, we made a few suggestions and refinements to master suite and other room layout details. Later, we reviewed client shop drawings and provided feedback on proposed interior concepts for kitchen, fireplace, stair, and built-ins for client review.

The contractor with client also had some great suggestions on how to execute some of the details along the way.

Rear Elevation Rendering -Minimalist Modern House - Indian Head Park - HAUS Architecture, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect — Rear Elevation Rendering – Minimalist Modern House – Indian Head Park – HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles

Construction Kicks-Off:

Client did not commission HAUS for regular construction-phase consulting. However, we did keep in-touch with an ongoing design dialogue and some limited design consulting along the way.

As HAUS is located in Indianapolis, and the project is 3.5 hour one-way drive, HAUS visited the site semi-yearly. Without a doubt, we were happy to swing by the site on Easter and Thanksgiving while passing through for holiday family visits in the area to see progress. Also, it was great to continue the design dialogue during the construction phase.

Foundation Walls Set – New Minimalist Modern House, Indian Head Park, Chicago, Illinois

Our client insisted the home be durable, long-lasting, and energy-efficient. For this reason, he built the structure with concrete foundation walls, steel beams, and CMU (concrete masonry unit) walls. Most certainly, the home would have cost less with wood or maybe even SIPS (structural insulated panel system) walls. However, our client wanted more heft, durability, and sound isolation.

As seen below, radiant heated floors encompass the entire lower level. Here, trades have installed the hydronic radiant system prior to concrete slab placement.

New Modern House 3 - Radiant Flooring Installation — Minimalist Modern House – Radiant Flooring Installation

Exterior Details

As we can see, all exterior walls are CMU (concrete masonry unit) construction, at Owner request. At this stage, Owner was still investigating exterior cladding options. As our initial concepts assumed a rainscreen, non-masonry cladding, exterior details did not include any masonry bearing ledges. For these reasons, we assumed a low area of concrete footings would remain exposed, and emphasized this feature accordingly. For example, referring to the back rendering elevations, we continued the exposed concrete base to wrap one side of deck and provide base for the outdoor fireplace. In comparing renderings to actual construction, team achieved portions of the original intent, while some details were added or tweaked.

This photo below is one of our favorite construction views, capturing the overall massing of the house on the property. It gives us a feel for final solid and void of exterior wall design.

IMG_7482[1] — CMU Installation Nears Completion

On the backside, the sheltering porch is taking shape. At upstairs balcony, we had suggested elimination of the wall offset for a simpler flush upper story condition. However, this was not modified, as we would have had to add another steel beam to support the CMU. Actual installation keeps the upper and lower story CMU bearing wall alignments as shown. Flat roof awning is included to keep some precipitation off the Nanawall balcony doors.

New Modern House 3 — Progress on back-side of home, including covered porch, balcony, and freestanding fireplace-grill

New Modern House 3 - camo pick-up — Camo pick-up

Exterior Windows

From the interior, many of the windows are full-height. Other than sliding glass walls (Nanawall), all exterior windows are Fleetwood Windows & Doors. Many of the operable windows are awnings. Their size allows for emergency egress from bedrooms. This particular view below is from Study-Playroom.

New Modern House 3 - room with a view — Room with a view

New Modern House 3 - tub carved from block of solid stone — Tub carved from block of solid stone

High-Velocity HVAC Sytem

As seen here, a high-velocity HVAC system is incorporated to supplement the hydronic radiant system downstairs. This system requires smaller openings and shafts for air movement, and lower profile outlets and inlets throughout the spaces. Most of the supply ducts are flexible plastic-wire wrapped in fiberglass and foil coating. The design and installation of this type of system when combined with hydronic radiant requires a level of expertise beyond the norm to ensure optimal performance and control appropriate for the locale.

New Modern House 3 - high velocity HVAC — High Velocity HVAC

Exterior Insulation

Owner added 2×4 wood-stud furring to all perimeter walls with open-cell foam insulation. Roof structure received minimum R24 closed-cell board insulation over deck and under roof membrane. Underside of roof deck received minimum R30 open cell foam. Below we can see installation of NanaWall sliding doors with access to Master Bedroom roof balcony to overlooking backyard.

New Modern House 3 - Master Suite Balcony Nanawall — Master Suite Balcony Nanawall

Owner maintained the two-tone exterior, but decided to change from cement board or metal cladding to masonry on both the light and darker sections. At the time of this photo, Owner had not yet made a final decision on the lighter material (2-story volume). Also, the outdoor fireplace base was built with CMU base instead of concrete per original renderings. Brick appears to possibly be Queen-sized for less depth than modular. Since we had originally designed for siding/rainscreen, we discussed adding steel lintels anchored to CMU to serve as masonry bearing since we did not include foundation brick ledges.

New Modern House 3 - Back Elevation Progress — Minimalist Modern House – Back Elevation Brick Progress

Product Details – Materials/Vendors/Manufacturers:

Interior doors: DILA Effebiquattro Newport (Italy)
Door levers: Serozzetta / Carlisle Brass (UK)
Main entrance door: Doors for Builders (Poland)
Windows: Fleetwood
Patio and Balcony Glass doors: NanaWall
Garage Doors: C.H.I. Overhead Doors
Floors: European White Oak 8 inch treated with Rubio Monocoat – Smoke color
Kitchen Cabinets: Stay-Straight Manufacturing
1st floor room dividing wall closet: Silver Birch Cabinetry
Glass work by: Glass Innovation
Stairs: Europiron Group / Illinois Designers & Builders
Deck and balcony: Azek
Exterior concrete cladding: Techo Bloc Travertina
Driveway Pavers: County Materials / Elements Timeless

Please check-back, as we will be adding more details to the story!

08 Dec 2015

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Adagio Penthouse Interior

Adagio Penthouse Interior was the result of a client trek from suburban country living to skyline views + modern details/materials. One look at the Urban penthouse cedar ceiling will “capture the curve” and your imagination…

ADAGIO Penthouse Interior feature in Indianapolis Monthly, January 2013. The feature made their Top 5 most popular photo albums of 2013.

From IMM – “At this downtown penthouse, Chris Short of HAUS Architecture and Nikki Sutton of Level Interior Architecture + Design put their modern mark on every inch—even the ceiling—to create a contemporary space rivaling the beauty of the condo’s sweeping views. Take a photo tour of the home’s most striking features. Photography by Ryan Kurtz.”

Adagio Penthouse Interior

Project Info:

Interior Architecture/Design: HAUS | Architecture with LEVEL Interiors
Developer/Contractor: 429 on the Park/Stenz Construction
Custom Millwork/Fabrication: Antreasian Design, Inc.
Flooring: ICC Floors
Furniture: Houseworks
Photography: Ryan Kurtz Photography
Featured: 2012 AIA Home Tour
Featured: 2013 Indianapolis Monthly

Process – Adagio Penthouse Interior

Adagio Penthouse Interior - Powder Room Door Detail - HAUS Architecture, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect — Adagio Penthouse Interior – Powder Room Door Detail

Adagio Penthouse Interior - Kitchen - Christopher Short, Architect, Indianapolis, HAUS Architecture — Adagio Penthouse Interior – Kitchen

Adagio Penthouse Interior - Juxtaposition Modern/Traditional - Christopher Short, Architect, Indianapolis, HAUS Architecture — Adagio Penthouse Interior – Juxtaposition Modern/Traditional

Product Details – Materials/Vendors/Manufacturers (Adagio):

Finishes

Honed Italian Limestone “Cassia Light” 18×18 and 18×36 (main flooring)
Polished Calcutta Marble (kitchen hood)
Honed Calcutta Marble (kitchen island)
Polished ‘Amani Bronze’ Marble Fireplace – Custom Cut
Atlas ‘Optimism’ Acrylic Cabinet Hardware
Kitchen Backsplash – custom milkglass wall finish (backpainted) in stainless steel channels
Caesarstone Counter in ‘Concrete’ (kitchen back counter and pantry)
Caesarstone Counter in ‘Blizzard’ (home office)
Emtek Carbon Fiber Cabinet Hardware
CONTEMPO White Marble ‘Linear Mosaics’ Walls (butler pantry backsplash)
KARASTAN ‘Broadloom’ Wool Carpet in Hamptons White
EVERSTONE 24” Airstrip Glass Tiles in ‘Stream’ (master bathroom backsplash wall)
Caesarstone Counter in ‘Blizzard’ (master bathroom vanity top)
STONEPEAK 24” x 24” ‘Touch Framestich’ Tile in Dune (master bathroom)
HAPPY FLOORS ‘Glamour’ 12” x 24” Porcelain Tile in White (master bathroom)
STONEPEAK ‘Touch Framestich’ Tile in Dune (master bathroom)
Stainless Steel Schluter Strips (master bathroom)
White Venetian Plaster Walls with Smooth Wax Finish by PJG Creations (master bathroom)

Furniture

Semicircular Sofa: YOUNGER – Houseworks (breakfast bay)
Solid Acrylic Sofa Legs: Custom by California Acrylic Design (breakfast bay)
Chairs: HS STUDIO “Verona” Acrylic Chairs with Canary Suede Seats (breakfast bay)
Table: John Lyle Scroll Table Base in Polished Stainless Steel with 52″ round Milk Glass Top (breakfast bay)
Pool/Dining Table: ARMAND in White Oak with Electric Blue Fabric – Houseworks (dining)
Dining Chairs: MODLOFT “Luxo Fleet” in white leather – Houseworks (dining)
Dining Bench: ARMAND “Fusion” in light cream leather – Houseworks (dining)
GAMMA INT’L ‘Twist’ Modern Leather Sectional Sofa in Elmo Soft Leather – Houseworks
Walnut Hutch w/Lath Herringbone Pattern – Designed & Fabricated by Nick Allman D & F LLC
LIGNE ROSET ‘Ruche’ Corner Settee in Soft White Velvet and Graphite Legs
TONELLI ‘Plinsky’ Coffee Table in Polished Chrome and Glass
LIGNE ROSET ‘Pan Pan’ White Acrylic Pedestal Table
MOOOI Acrylic Crochet Piece by Marcel Wanders
Costantini Pietro ‘Villa’ Counter Stools in Gloss White and Custom Fabric from Alaxi
EMECO Hand Polished Stainless Steel Counter Stools
ALTURA ‘Astragal’ Writing Desk in Ash (home office)
PLEXI-CRAFT Classic Acrylic Stool with Custom White Fur Upholstery
IKEA ‘Stockholm’ Side Table in High Gloss White (home office)
LUXE INTERIORS – Custom King Bed in ‘Bella Pearl’ Velvet with Stainless Nail Heads
Solid Maple and Ash Bench w/ Acrylic Lace Runner Designed & Fabricated by Cory Robinson Studio
“Iris” Mirrored Chest by Owner
“Gabriella” Polished Nickel Plated Side Table – HORCHOW
EUROTREND ‘Elizabetha’ Dressing Chair in Beechwood with White Laquor by Jaime Bouzaglo (master bathroom)
WS BATH COLLECTIONS ‘TS1’ Freestanding Dressing Makeup Mirror (master bathroom)
TOTO ‘Universal’ Washout High Efficiency Urinal – Cotton White w/SLOAN Automated Flush (master bathroom)
TOTO ‘Acquia’ Dual Flush Toilet – Cotton White
DELTA ‘Vero’ Polished Chrome Paper Holder
RADICI “Signal Collection” (steel webchair)
BROWN JORDAN ‘Still’ Sofa and Table

Lighting

Lights: JUNO 2″ recessed LED with Gimbal trims
Tech Lighting “2 Thousand Degrees” Kiev Hanging Pendants
Jonathan Adler acrylic accessories – white lacquer (powder room)
Produzione Privata “Acquaparete” sanded glass wall sconces (dining)
Eurofase chrome mini pendants (dining)
Foscarini “Caboche” transparent acrylic chandelier
VISO “Ulee” pendant in chrome
FDV Collection ‘Joy’ Acrylic Pendant design by Paolo De Lucchi & Giorgia Paganini
ET2 ‘Minx’ Pendants in Satin Nickel
ET2 ‘Starburst’ Mini Pendants in Satin Nickel
FABBIAN ‘Diamond’ 7” and 8” Glass Pendants
TOM DIXON ‘Void’ Pendant in Polished Chrome
TOM DIXON ‘Mirror Ball’ Pendant in Polished Chrome
SLAMP ‘Crazy Diamond’ Suspension Pendant in Transparent Acrylic
VISO ‘Zebra’ Pendant
FDV Collection ‘Sibilla’ Pendant by Crepax and Zanon
Schonbeck ‘Geometric’ Pendant with Swarovski crystals
EUROFASE ‘Sonnet’ Pendant in Chrome
QIS DESIGN ‘Coral’ Pendant in Clear Acrylic
DAINOLITE ‘One Light Ball’ Pendant in Polished Chrome
EUROFASE ‘Melody’ Pendant in Chrome
TREND LIGHTING ‘Distratto’ Mini Pendant in Polished Chrome
Custom Acrylic Canopy Design/Fabrication/Installation – Nick Allman D & F LLC
ARTEMIDE ‘Tolomeo’ Mega Floor Lamp in Black by Michele De Lucchi/ Giancarlo Fassina
FRANCO ALBINI ‘Nemo AS41Z’ Pendant in Polished Chrome
LIGHT YEARS ‘Caravaggio’ Opal Pendants in Milk Glass (Fritz Hansen)
Polis ‘Luminaire’ in Glazed Nickel with Frosted Diffuser by Studio Design Italia
Capiz Shell Pendant (office pendant)
Jonathan Adler ‘Robert Abbey’ Parker Pendant – Custom White Gloss Over Brass (master bedroom)
ARTEMIDE ‘Tolomeo’ Swing Arm Wall Lamp in Brushed Aluminum (master bedroom)
BESA ‘Stilo’ Midi Pendants in Stainless Steel and Frosted Glass (master bathroom)
Besa ‘Series 7860’ Indoor/Outdoor Frosted Light Sconces in Shower (master bathroom)
ARTEMIDE ‘Rezek’ 2 Square Strip Wall Lights (master bathroom)
George Kovacs ‘5040 Series’ Cased Glass Bath Bar – Toilet Area (master bathroom)

Appliances

MIELE ‘Optima II’ Integrated Dishwasher
VENT A HOOD with Custom Stainless Steel Fabricated Insert and Ribbon Banding
Cooktop: WOLF 36″ Induction – black glass
GE MONOGRAM Electric/Convection Oven
GE MONOGRAM Wine Cooler
GE PROFILE II Microwave
GE PROFILE Integrated Trash Compactor
SUBZERO Integrated Refrigerator/Freezer

Accessories/Hardware

Decorative Silver Leaf Mirror by Owner (one painted safety yellow)
Towel Bar: DURAVIT “Vero Collection” polished chrome towel bars
OKO New Zealand Wood Rug – Spazio di Casa (breakfast bay)
French Andirons – Circa 1860 by Owner
Zebra Rug – Elan Furs (fireplace lounge)
TONELLI ‘Dekon 2’ Coffee Table
American Leather Comfort Recliner in Elmo Soft Leather – Houseworks
DUVAL ‘Lily’ Side Table in Brushed Chrome
TFG Small and Large ‘Tribeca’ C Tables in Polished Chrome
“Climbers” Metal Sculptures in Custom White Gloss by ANCIZAR MARIN
BLOMUS ‘Velo’ Stainless Steel Candlesticks
BLOMUS Polished Stainless Steel Orbs
Aluminum and Glass Column Fountain by OEG – Outdoor Environmental Group (exterior balcony)
Limestone Planks and Artificial Grass – OEG – Outdoor Environmental Group (exterior balcony)
Lighthouse Outdoor Torches in White Porcelain & Aluminum (exterior balcony)
Paolo Rizzatto ‘Serralunga’ Planters in White Resin (exterior balcony)
BLOMUS Polished Stainless Steel Garden Globes (exterior balcony)
MAGIS Puppy in Orange (exterior balcony)
Jonathan Adler ‘Alexandra’ Porcelain Vase (butler pantry)
Jonathan Adler ‘Owl’ Bookends and “Charade” Studded Box (home office)
Custom Drapery Sheers in ‘Guggenheim Ice’ – DRAPERY STREET (master bedroom)
Custom Bedding in ‘Soft White Cotton’ – DRAPERY STREET (master bedroom)
Custom Bolsters in FABRICUT Velvet ‘Graphite’ – DRAPERY STREET (master bedroom)
WS BATH COLLECTIONS ‘Urban’ Towel Bars in Polished Chrome (master bathroom)
ATLAS ‘Platform’ Polished Chrome Cabinet Hardware (master bathroom)
Plate Glass Mirror Held Off Wall with Cove Lighting (master bathroom)

Plumbing Fixtures

Sink: DURAVIT “Vero Collection” 47″ washbasin – Alpin white
Sinks: TOTO “Kiwami Renesse Collection”
Faucet: DELTA “Arzo Proximity Collection” sensing electronic faucet in chrome
Toilet: DURAVIT “Starck 3 Collection” toilet – Alpin white
JULIEN ‘Vintage’ Under Mount Sink in Stainless Steel
KWC ‘Ono Highflex’ Faucet /Soap Dispenser in Polished Chrome
CORSTONE ‘Shoreham’ Drop in Sink – White (butler pantry)
KRAUS Faucet in Polished Chrome (butler pantry)
TOTO ‘Kiwami Renesse’ Design Vessel Sinks in Sana Gloss- Cotton White (master bathroom)
GRAFF G ‘Immersion’ Faucet in Polished Chrome (master bathroom)
NEWPORT BRASS ‘Secant’ Collection Shower Faucets in Polished Chrome (master bathroom)
DELTA ‘Rizu’ Collection Wall Mount Single Hand Shower in Polished Chrome (master bathroom)

Art

Alvar Suno Lithographs
“Is Forever Enough” bronze sculpture by JD Hansen
Nick Allman D & F LLC – custom designed a fabricated art stand (Walnut + Reclaimed Wood Lath and Slate)
‘2 Transformers Surfing ‘ Custom Art by Susan Hodgin
16^th Century Stained Glass Armorial Panel and Italian Pottery by Owner
Basswood Frame w/ Aluminum Trim, Fabrication and Installation by Nick Allman D & F LLC
“ Galana Figura Con Falda Cosida en Curvas” (Galana Figure with Skirt Stitched on Curves) – Graphic Art on Aluminum by Emma Fernandez

29 May 2021

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Eclectic Italian Renaissance Addition

Eclectic Italian Renaissance Addition is located on historic Washington Boulevard in Indianapolis, Indiana – one of the City’s most beautiful historic neighborhoods.

Our clients have lived at this location for 40+ years, and they intend to stay there as long as possible. So to support that goal, we have collaborated with them to design a new main level master suite and a new accessible entrance on the rear of the home.

Please see below for the design process.

Eclectic Italian Renaissance Addition

Project Info:

Client: Private Residential Client
Architecture: HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles
Interior Design Collaboration: HAUS with Kalleen & Company
Construction Management: WERK | Building Modern
Photography: HAUS (except where noted otherwise)

Design Process – Eclectic Italian Renaissance Addition:

It was important to our clients that we respect and enhance the existing Eclectic Italian Renaissance architecture, and not introduce something foreign into the mix. However from a massing standpoint, it wasn’t obvious how to achieve the additional main level space. This was due to the tight setbacks on the north side and existing vehicular access drives/garage on the west. Then to the south, the Owner had cared for their gardens for years, and wanted to tread lightly on that side.

Please check-back later for updates! We’ll be sure to share details of the design and construction process.

13 May 2023

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Modern Container Duplex

We’re excited to reveal Modern Container Duplex, our first container home design.

Located in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood, this duplex will utilize seven total containers configured in a two-story arrangement to work on it’s uniquely-configured site. The design utilizes a combination of exposed container shell with areas of composite cladding. We were sure to investigate building science strategies to inform how we designed and detailed this unique building enclosure-type to ensure top-level performance in our Midwest climate.

Please check-back, as we intend to keep the story updated with construction highlights!

10 Oct 2015

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Rural Modern

This New Rural Modern House on a large isolated suburban landscape is free to be whatever it wants to be. This location has no required design review committees, nor are zoning variances needed. Just meet the Owner goals and zoning criteria and go for it. Owner expressed an interest in privacy, natural light, and Mid-Century Modernism. They referenced a few Midcentury design images they liked along with a few examples of courtyard-style homes that suited their taste. Most importantly they made it clear, “this is the last home we are doing, and we want to do it right”.

New Modern House Ditch - Concept Diagram Front — Concept Diagram Front – Rural Modern House

Design Concept – Rural Modern House

The campus-style, courtyard-driven design solution for this home balances passive design opportunities with a multi-tiered program working to balance aesthetics and budget. Architect has defined each major program element placed with respect to beneficial adjacencies, solar orientation, views, access, and privacy. Front approach is low-key and private, with a sheltering front porch, offset front door, and smaller front windows. Upon entry, views open to the back courtyard and vaulted living space, with visual access to the bedroom and recreation wings framing the pool terrace and covered outdoor eating area. Main living core, recreation, bedrooms, art studio and garage all express independent volumes connected by a central axis. Overall architectural aesthetic is a blend of Modernism and rural agrarian form and material.

New Modern House Ditch - Concept Diagram Rear — Concept Diagram Rear – Rural Modern House

This rear-view diagram above illustrates the linear axis connecting all portions of the plan. Owner will use the grain-bin studio to the far-right for gardening, painting, and metalworking. Studio will be part of Phase Two after move-in. Please check back for updates as we will be adding to the story.

Project Info – Rural Modern House:

Architecture/Interior Design/Photography/Renderings: HAUS | Architecture
Interior Design Collaboration: Design Studio Vriesman
Landscape Architect: A2 Design
Contractor: JBG Construction with Timothy Homes
Photography: Adam Reynolds Photography (Finish Exterior Overalls), HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles (Finish Exterior Details + Process Photos)

Media Links:

HAVEN Magazine: Built on a Lasting Relationship – Timothy Homes with McComb

Foundations

After many months of planning, we are excited to finally be breaking ground in late fall 2015. The photo below views progress from back-yard. Lower right of photo is the pool-deck, and the front left-side space is the Recreation Wing (pool house). Far upper left is the 3-car Garage. Pool Deck originally faced south southeast, but in a last-moment decision, Owner decided to turn the orientation. So, builder turned the footprint about 55 degrees counter-clockwise so pool deck would face the back woods – almost directly east. The house was designed to take advantage of the south passive solar light. And we also took into consideration that we maintain enough privacy from the property to the south. So, we are watching closely how this adjustment may affect the interior quality of light.

Framing Progress

This framing-progress photo below is during mid-November 2015. It’s always fun to see the bones taking shape in built form. Things seem to be just as we had hoped from a scale, proportion, and interior volume standpoint. Computer modeling has made things so much more accurate in communicating the design. This ease translates to us, our clients, and the construction teams; less surprises and design-misunderstandings. This house is stick-frame (2×4 walls) on 8″ thickness concrete foundation walls – based on builder/crew familiarity; and therefore, cost.

New Modern House Ditch — Framing Progress – Rear (November 2015) – Rural Modern House

Architectural Stair + Drywall

The unique window/wall design in the architectural stair is partially a result of HVAC system integration. Vertical chase feeding from lowest-level is to the left of these stair windows. Horizontal duct runs feeding the three floors of the bedroom wing run horizontally between the windows just below respective floor structure for each floor. Sloped window sills bring more light into the stair space, with an aesthetic nod to LeCorbusier’s, Notre Dame du Haut.

Infinity Pool

This photo from the back in early summer 2016 shows infinity pool and exterior siding/roofing progress. Modern homes like this with a sophisticated mix of exterior cladding and roofing materials take more design, detail, and coordination. And certainly as compared to the norm, a project like this takes a more commercial level of precision. The clean lines make imperfections more noticeable. So in many ways, “simple” can be more difficult to achieve. Brick-cladding on the bedroom wing to the right is nearing completion.

Notice the subtle accent/texture in some areas of the brick. We achieved the variation with raked mortar joints in these areas adjacent to concave mortal joints. This was an effort to find the right balance of detail and simplicity. The siding areas to the left will be primarily pre-finished cement board rainscreen walls. This material is not common and requires a fair level of craftsmanship. Build team will install these panels later in the process. Outdoor Covered Lounge/Grill Area (to far left inside corner) will have a wood ceiling and back wall.

New Modern House Ditch - Infinity Pool - Courtyard - Progress — Courtyard – Infinity Pool – Rear Pool Terrace Progress – Rural Modern House

Trim Carpentry

This photo below shows status of the main living space viewed from the Kitchen area as trim carpenters have taken-over. The big sliding-glass doors and transoms are long lead-time items and will arrive in a few weeks. Initial concept for the interiors included light to medium-gray large-format tiles. These tiles would reflect light and absorb warmth from passive solar in winter. We designed trusses in white-painted wood, with a wood ceiling to add warmth to the space. Kitchen cabinets were to be rift-cut white oak door fronts, with exposed white cabinet boxes. Up to this point, Architect led the exterior and interior design concepts, in collaboration with Owner and build team.

During the design process, some of the original decisions evolved on-the-fly. Owner preferred wood flooring over tile, and selected a semi-dark stained species. Since floors changed to wood, we modified living space ceilings to white-painted drywall. Large trusses changed from white to stained wood to match floors. We are not sure if the darker floor and trusses will adversely affect the lightness of the space. However, we believe the new modified interior renderings and lighting scheme look nice.

Overall, the original interior architecture concepts are true-to-form. The details are on-track and the cabinetry is true-to-concept. Original rift-cut white oak cabinet doors changed to light bamboo. Owner deals in office furniture where white oak is very common and didn’t want white oak in their home. We are hopeful that the bamboo will help achieve the desired, timeless vibe.

New Modern House Ditch - Interior Progress — Interior Progress (Main Living Space Viewed from Kitchen) – Rural Modern House

Exterior Details

After exploring a number of exterior cladding options, we ended-up with a bit more brick and a bit less cement-board rainscreen than planned. The brown brick in the left-side bedroom wing is as per original concept. But client preferred to swap-out the original dark-gray cement board for the warm-gray brick. Early in the design process, we explored ultra-high performance concrete panels for exterior cladding. However, this technology is extremely expensive. Later, we defaulted to CBF, parts of which were replace with brick per photo below.

From a conceptual standpoint, it was important to us to do everything we could to maintain the design integrity of the original cladding parti. Dark brick replaced original grey concrete panels to save cost, but we were able to mostly maintain the vision. During construction, the team still needs to make a number of interpretations and decisions. And as originator of the design concepts, the Architect should be the primary point-of-contact to help fill-in the blanks along the way.

Roofing + Cladding

Sloped roof above is standing seam metal in a preweathered galvalume finish. This color is affordable, and is as close as you can get to a zinc-look for the cost.

Black Reveal-Shield is an open-joint rainscreen systems as the WRB (weather-resistive-barrier) behind the final exterior wall cladding. Vertical black strips are composite battens with rubber strip gaskets to mount the cement board rainscreen system. Architect specified a flashing component to transition between vertical and horizontal panels, but it it not present in the mock-up. This photo shows the initial cement-board mock-up for Owner and Architect review.

New Modern House Ditch - Exterior Cladding Mock-up — Front Exterior Cladding Mock-up – Rural Modern House

New Modern House Ditch - Siding Detail — Siding Detail – Rural Modern House

Cement Board Cladding

In late summer 2016, it was finally time to install the cement-board cladding as we did successfully at Copperwood (where we served as Construction Manager via WERK | Building Modern). But with this Ditch Rd project, builder expressed concerns about the tolerances and difficulty of some of the details. This photo above shows the initial builder mock-up. White panels are CBF cladding. The black weather-resistive barrier keeps water out. The vertical channels provide a mountable surface for the panels. We had discussed flashing at the vertical-to-soffit panel transition that had not been installed in this photo. Joints between panels are 5/16″. Since reveals are black, the contrast between black and white require a fair level of precision.

The details for this project were a bit more complex than those at Copperwood. And according to builder, labor costs were going to be higher than anticipated. In discussing complexities and alternatives on-site, the team reviewed cement board vs the idea of using stucco instead. HAUS firmly pressed to proceed as planned with the cement board, and agreed that some areas could use larger pieces. We felt this system would achieve the intended technically-refined, low-maintenance, water-managed cladding solution.

Industry Tolerances

Although it is not an industry expectation, Owner expressed a desire for absolute perfection. Builder was not confident that they could achieve a high-enough level of precision to meet that request. Architect tried to convince all parties that the the minor variances were still going to allow for an excellent outcome. We had agreed on this material and detail 18 months prior, with builder design process participation. However, the team abandoned the CBF material in-favor of EIFS. Owner and Builder were concerned potential joint alignment imperfections, even if within accepted tolerances, would be a long-term disappointment.

Earlier in the design process we had explored stucco as an option. But at that time, Owner had ruled it out due to water-intrusion issues that the EIFS product had in their previous neighborhood. Many improperly-detailed, non-water managed EIFS projects were failing in the residential industry at the time. Owner decided on Stucco/EIFS to clad all the white siding areas instead of cement board. So, builder removed all of the cement board WRB and battens in favor of a stucco system.

We didn’t agree with that decision, but the builder said he would eat the CBF costs. This made the decision easy for Owner (much to Architect’s dismay). Months later, we learned that Owner held Architect accountable for their decision to change course. Since then, architect has felt fall-out from that particular chain of events. Builder removed the unused panels to Owner warehouse where they may still be sitting unused.

Alternative Cladding

“Anyhoo”, we pushed for the smoothest sand-finish EIFS possible with the new direction. The goal with this finish was so to most closely resemble real portland cement stucco. We always recommend water-managed wall-cladding systems no matter the material. However, it seems the build team may not have used a water-managed system here. Water managed systems (grooves in the backside of the rigid insulation) probably lose most of their CI (continuous exterior insulation) benefit in an EIFS system. It appears that most EIFS installers still prefer non water managed. They promote the system weather barrier direct to sheathing, followed with adhesive application of the system (so no mechanical fasteners penetrating the assembly). If all areas are flashed accordingly per manufacturer recommendations, maybe this system is resilient.

EIFS installer placed sealant at all column base concrete porch conditions. So, it appears there is no way for water to weep out of the wall system if it ever gets in. We aren’t sure if a base weep would have been advised. We were able to give input on all the joint locations to somewhat realize original design integrity. Standard v-groove EIFS joints give some detail in lieu of a more complicated extruded aluminum profile integration. Some of the EIFS details vary from design intent, but overall, the team achieved the look. More reflection and time will tell if stucco/EIFS was a good choice.

Delivery Methodology

More architect involvement during construction is never a bad idea. For this reason, we always push to function as architect, interior designer, and builder on our best design projects. See the story why at WERK | Building Modern. We prefer to take the lead in the design-build process beginning-to-end. With this process, architect leads the coordination of ongoing field construction decisions and alternatives along the way. Design-by-committee or redesign and reconsideration of design-intent during the construction phase without Architect oversight is a precarious road to take. This especially applies for a project like this (modern, commercial level of detail). However, the team dynamic and client-priorities may dictate a different approach.

Future Studio

The Owner still plans to build the studio as a future Phase Two. This studio will be a great feature for the owner. Also, it will complete the architectural composition by helping achieve visual balance and also softening an otherwise angular design. See the renderings, especially the aerial view.

New Modern House Ditch - Exterior Cladding Progress — Front Exterior Cladding Progress – Rural Modern House

The front facade and front entry porch (photos above and below) exhibit an understated, horizontal form. Repetitive columns frame the porch, entry, and study. Restraint and privacy trump opulence and grandiosity. This front living core is the central space from which all other wings radiate. The main gutter is to extend beyond the facade on each side and have a chain downspout to landscape.

New Modern House Ditch - Exterior Cladding Process — Rear Exterior Cladding Process (October 2016) – Rural Modern House

These photos of rear exterior cladding progress are from late fall 2016. Rough grading was underway and exterior stucco was in-process. Overall, things are coming along well, and it is exciting to see the final touches coming together.

Entry Porch

The thermally-treated wood cladding at Front Entry Porch was an Owner construction change on-the-fly. We originally designed this cladding as dark grey cement board in 6″ wide horizontally planks mounted on rainscreen wall system. This was part of the “grey siding ribbon” that was wrapping the Living Wing. Most of the grey siding was changed to the grey brick, but this area under the porch and running toward the Garage was changed to wood based on the Owner’s appreciation for the thermally-treated Ash at Copperwood. With this radical change to the original design-intent, Architect encouraged the client to give the wood siding a grey-tint. The idea was to maintain the design concept integrity and not have the appearance of too many materials being used. Instead, Owner opted for a natural thermally-treated wood finish with a clear-coat to maintain the appearance and not weather gray.

The wood cladding is a nice-looking product (thermally treated Poplar). We are keeping an eye on how it will work with the overall composition. We hope this additional exterior material won’t be too busy. Overall, this porch looks fantastic in this photo, including the simple white beams and plank ceiling. Rainscreen battens were not used and the wood siding is touching the concrete porch floor. We would have liked to advise on the proper detailing of these installations for longevity.

Little Details

Little details throughout could be better. For instance, with a little more attention to detail, team could have relocated or camouflaged the HVAC return-air grille visible through the entry door transom window. We have creative ideas for how to minimize the visual impact of mechanicals in circumstances like this. However, implementation of these micro-details takes the extra time and effort above-and-beyond a normal builder-lead approach and perhaps budget allowances. In the creation of architecture, how far to take the design and detail is always a balance. What prevails, quality, timelines, or budgets? Two of these three may be possible.

New Modern House Ditch - Entry Porch Progress — Entry Porch Progress – Rural Modern House

New Modern House Ditch - Entry Porch Cladding — Entry Porch Cladding – Rural Modern House

Interior Details

Here below is another view of the architectural stair in the bedroom wing. This is the only stair in the house and it connects all three levels. We attempted to make it an interesting, light-filled space. For the most-part, things came out as planned based on the 3D diagrams. We didn’t over-detail things here, and some things were left to the trades/builder to work-out basing decisions on similar decisions/budgets to New Modern House Treesdale, which had the same design and build team in-place. The stair + railing details could have used a bit more attention and follow-through with architect’s 3D concepts. But the final window, trim, and drywall details here came-out just right.

New Modern House Ditch - Architectural Stair Progress — Architectural Stair Progress – Rural Modern House

New Modern House Ditch - Guardrail Detail — Guardrail Detail – Rural Modern House

Cable-Rail

We detailed this cable-rail condition so the cables would anchor into a minimal wood trim. However, trim carpenters anchored them directly into drywall instead. This is a difficult detail to achieve and seems a bit unresolved. Floor trims and stair treads were to match the factory floor finish, but not quite a match. Landing detail at window to the left could have been more elegant with Architect assistance. Getting every micro-detail perfect requires a certain level of precision and team oversight. This usually translates into more time and cost. So, it comes down to Owner priorities to determine how far we take the details and definition of quality. Overall, this is a great project and team achievement and we are happy for the opportunity to have been involved.

New Modern House Ditch - Architectural Stair — Architectural Stair – Rural Modern House

Master Spa

The integrity of the Master Bathroom design came through well – as did the related Kitchen area. Cabinet door-fronts were originally to be rift-cut white-oak, and replaced with light bamboo; overall a nice look. The cabinet run continues from this double vanity to the left into a make-up area. From there, the motif continues into counter-height Master Bedroom storage drawers. We are really happy how the original interior architecture design concepts have come to fruition.

Architect had completed a comprehensive design vision (site, exterior, interior) before construction began. Early in the construction process, the team had started the interior finish selections process. At that time, Owner had expressed the desire to shift gears with some of the suggested directions (more finish-related items). Owner preferred hardwood flooring throughout (instead of the large-format tile we proposed in living spaces). So since we ended-up with dark hardwood flooring throughout, we made some other adjustments. Beams shifted to darker wood to match floors, and ceilings became white drywall instead of wood. This did make the interiors a lot darker. Darker floor finish paired with turning the house away from the original solar exposure most certainly made a difference. Cabinets changed from rift-cut white oak to a linear grain bamboo, which maintained the concept in those areas.

Interior Selections

As we had established the exterior and interior design concepts, we still needed to make all final interior selections. Owner expressed a desire to get assistance with interior furniture and furnishings, so HAUS recommended Tom Vriesman. From there, HAUS shared the interior vision documents. Subsequently, Vriesman took the reins on primary coordination of interior finish and fixture selections with Owner and HAUS collaboration. Team was respectful in staying-true to HAUS’ established interiors concepts (thanks, Tom!). Chris and Tom have worked together successfully on projects in the past and we speak the same design-language.

New Modern House Ditch - Master Bathroom Detail — Master Bathroom Detail – Rural Modern House

Living Space Interior Details

New Modern House Ditch - Main Living Space Progress — Main Living Space Progress (View from Living/Study Area) – Rural Modern House

The large 10′ wide by 8′ tall sliding glass doors by EFCO arrived and they look great. The team and owner debated the idea of reducing the size of these doors, mainly to save cost. We encouraged keeping the bigger doors. To the far right just past the kitchen island, one can see how 8′-wide doors would have looked (too small!). There were no local installations to inspect the EFCO commercial-grade sliding door product prior to ordering. Would doors be too heavy and difficult to operate due to their size and weight of the double-glazing?

Builder visited an installation in St. Louis to advise on operation. As it turns-out, they are not ultra-light, but serviceable. Their lower price-point for that size door when compared to some of the smoother-operating more expensive products led to EFCO. As large, sliding glass-panel door continue to increase in popularity, more and more options are becoming available. Only time living-in and using the space will determine if this product was the right choice for the owner.

Steel Fireplace Details

New Modern House Ditch - Fireplace Detail Progress — Fireplace Detail Progress – Rural Modern House

We had fun with the fireplace and kitchen island/cooktop/hood areas in the interior. The goal was to create an alignment, detail, and material relationship between these three interior features. We utilized steel cladding to unify and camouflage the dark TV/Fireplace units. Then, we borrowed the same steel material to wrap the kitchen hood. Grey tile makes-up the difference, used on fireplace, kitchen island, and cooktop wall. Originally, we intended to use this tile on most floors. Sides of the fireplace incorporate storage cubbies for wood, books, and other items. We’ll be painting insides of cubbies a dark grey to more closely resemble the steel coloration. These are minimal/modern details that are tedious to achieve, but a difference-maker when accomplished. In the photo below, the steel cladding was to extend all the way down to the fireplace opening. So, we may see an adjustment there to the steel.

New Modern House Ditch - Fireplace Detail Progress - HAUS Architecture, Christopher Short, Indianapolis Architect — Fireplace Detail Progress – Rural Modern House

Kitchen Progress

Even with finish changes to the floors, beams, and cabinets, the integrity of the main living spaces came through well. The beams came-out way darker than the floors, but what can you do at that point? The bamboo cabinets should be a good alternative to white oak and we hope they’ll remain as timeless.

This open-concept layout includes a back kitchen that continues beyond the cooking wall to left of window sink. These back pantry areas are ideal to enable some dirtier behind-the-scenes work; a place to have the wall ovens, food storage, clean-up sink, and prep area. If things don’t want to be totally on display with an open kitchen, then a functional pantry serves that purpose. The space feels a little darkish, but the scale of the main living space probably helps.

New Modern House Ditch - Main Living Space Nearing Completion — Kitchen/Dining/Living Space Nearing Completion – Rural Modern House

Final Exterior Details

We designed special scupper details for conditions like this below; however, this actual installation isn’t what we designed. Without open runoff for overflow, debris may not run freely of the flat roofs. Team didn’t consult architect on these changes from design. Roofer should have provided shop drawings for architect review – c’mon people!

New Modern House Ditch - Scupper Detail — Scupper Detail – Rural Modern House

New Modern House Ditch - Side Porch Detail — Side Porch Detail – Rural Modern House

The wood siding looks nice overall. Its introduction does add another level of complexity to the facade. We noticed here that siding touches concrete at base. For certain, we would have suggested raising base from concrete and incorporation of a rainscreen batten detail to properly weep water and ensure a longer-lasting installation. We certainly hope this detail doesn’t compromise siding longevity.

We detailed the front gutter as box-style channel. It was to overlap the corner by 24″ or so to direct water and splash away from the structure. Build team installed an Ogee-style gutter instead with rain-chain alignment with column. Over time, the proximity and anticipated splatter may create maintenance issues at the now EIFS column. We aren’t sure why these original design details were not followed. Build team didn’t consult the architect. The answer would have been “not recommended”, with supporting rationale. Since we were out of the loop, we are left to wonder if budget drove these compromises. Or was it just an oversight? Again, on the construction projects we manage, these details get realized properly.

New Modern House Ditch - Entry Detail — Entry Detail – Rural Modern House

We love the linear snow-guard bar. The bar and hardware is a good look.

New Modern House Ditch - Entry Porch Detail — Entry Porch Detail – Rural Modern House

Owner Occupancy

Owner moved-in to the home in late 2016, and furnishings are mostly complete by now. Most of the exterior landscaping completed in spring 2017, however it may take a few season for plantings to mature. We do not have a firm timetable for the Phase Two Studio addition, but believe it’s still in the plan. Overall, we’re grateful to have been involved on this excellent design opportunity; however, we are not satisfied with the overall process or the team dynamic. We hope to be able to finish the documentation/photography on the project in the future.

12 Oct 2016

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Modern Craftsman

Background

We met our Broad Ripple Modern Craftsman clients at the Broad Ripple Home Tour in Fall 2014 when they were volunteer docents for our Broad Ripple Bungalow project, which was one of the homes on the tour. By all means, we were very happy when they called to begin the planning process for their craftsman-style bungalow also on Carrollton, a beautiful, walkable street lined with several excellent Craftsman-Style homes. Having lived in the home for 20+ years, our clients didn’t want to leave but wanted a respectfully-modern, light-filled transformation to support their lifestyle for the next 20 and beyond. The new design reflects their personalities and life-stories (who they are and how they want to live) on the inside, while the outside is a major upgrade dialing-up the Craftsman style.

Since our clients are passionate about good design, high-quality materials, and energy/resource efficiency, this project was a perfect fit for an architect-led design-build approach. Certainly, we enjoy the design process, but also collaborating with the trade contractors and overseeing the construction. Undeniably, a direct conduit from design to construction helps ensure the successful implementation of design vision.

We began construction in September 2016, substantially completing it in April 2017 as planned (7 months).

Project Info – Broad Ripple Modern Craftsman:

Architecture/Interior Design/Renderings: HAUS | Architecture
Photography: HAUS | Architecture (some supplemental images courtesy of Indianapolis Monthly Magazine – Tony Valainis)
Construction Management: WERK | Building Modern
Published: 2018 Indianapolis Monthly
Featured: 2019 AIA Architects Home Tour
Featured: 2019 Broad Ripple Historic Home Tour

Media Links:

The project is beginning to get some recognition – check out these articles and blogs:

Indianapolis Monthly: Staying Power – A Broad Ripple Bungalow Grows Up

Five Most Popular Gable Roof Designs

Art of the Exterior: When Less Is More

Photo Library: These 57 Cool Corners are Decorated in a Big Way (Modern Craftsman first floor powder room is number 54!)

Photothèque : Ces 57 petits coins voient la déco en grand

Stair Harp Installation

Check-out the time-lapse video below. Paul Reynolds and Derek Mills fabricated and installed the steel guardrail prior. Then later, they came back to install the vertical stainless-steel cable-rail system. If only it could go this quickly in real-life!

The Design Process – Broad Ripple Modern Craftsman

The design modifications included in this complete gut/remodel include new everything + personal touches inspired by the owners. Exposed structure + connection hardware is a nod to Lori’s father, who worked in the building industry designing hardware. Also, other interior details that pay homage to client interest in music, particularly stringed instruments. We will share more of the story and design process, including interior design concepts and renderings, as the project progresses. The interiors are what really sets this project apart.

It is important to think about the big picture but also the details. At HAUS, first we work to establish the big-picture concepts, which are inspired by our client and particulars of place. From there every subsequent decision is born from that concept. Certainly, our clients are our inspiration, and therefore, they have ownership if not just the physical home but also the design solutions. Their personalities ARE the design.

Although the construction documents are two-dimensional, we think, see, and live in three dimensions. The image below is a ghosted version of the 3D computer model. As can be seen, this model includes developed details, so this was near the end of the design process. One can begin to see all the elements within the spaces, from the structural elements to the furniture pieces. Please check back later as we’ll share more about the beginning of the design process before it was this far along!

Breaking “Ground” – Broad Ripple Modern Craftsman

Here’s a shot of the existing house as lumber began arriving. Our client refers to existing roof eaves as a raccoon motel. This is because they are in disrepair with gaps allowing wildlife to camp-out. We will be bringing this bungalow above and beyond its original Craftsman roots from a design, detail, and quality standpoint. This preexisting roof and attic space is coming off to accommodate the new upstairs.

Framing lumber arrived in mostly one delivery, which was helpful. This is because the site is unique in that it shares a driveway with the neighboring property and much of the landscaping is to remain. We managed to tuck the lumber package back into the owner’s carport and driveway, which gave us room to set a dumpster next to the house, rather than in the front yard or street.

Demolition – Broad Ripple Modern Craftsman

And with a few swings of the hammer, the renovation has begun! We began by salvaging a lot of elements from the existing space. We donated much of the existing light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, and cabinets to Habitat for Humanity for re-use, thus diverting them from going into the dumpster. At client request, we salvaged original doors and trims for re-use in the new design. It was not our original intent to completely demolish all interior walls and ceilings, but our framer urged us to consider it since that would streamline the process and give an entirely new interior. Let’s do it.