Paper Architecture
Unbuilt Works
Digital Architecture is one term for unbuilt works. Paper Architecture is another.
Over the years, we have worked on many designs for projects that have not moved forward to construction. So here on this page, we’ll be sharing some of our favorites, adding a few every so often.
There are many scenarios or reasons why these projects did not get built. Some of the more common explanations involve sticker-shock, recession, lifestyle change, and unexpected job relocation.
Sometimes we look back on forgotten projects that did not move forward. In fact, the list is longer than we thought. So by all means, please give these lost compositions some love and let us know what you think!
Flood Zone Prototype House
We designed this flood zone prototype house in 2017 for our clients who own several vacant lots in Nora just north of White River. This site is directly west of North Keystone Avenue south of 80th Street. The original intent was to rezone the lots to accommodate 6-8 new single-family homes. In fact, the first model was to be completed for Owner’s personal residence by 2018.
The rezoning process was met with some resistance, but later approved. However, during the process, property owner decided not to proceed and put all rezoned properties up for resale as a package. As of summer 2019, properties were still for sale. We were hoping this project would move forward, and maybe it still has a chance with the right buyer.
It’s true that the nature and scale of these designs may prove prohibitive on the budget-side if speculative. Comps of adjacent properties are lower than what it would take to properly execute this vision.
Morse Reservoir Lakeside Renovation
This proposed renovation transforms a preexisting cottage on the reservoir for a young bachelor and fiance’. We proposed to give the existing bi-level configuration with basement a complete make-over, including expanded master suite and bedrooms on the upper level. Also, lower level expands to accommodate larger living spaces, home office, and covered outdoor space for lakefront enjoyment.
Client was ready to roll forward, but later changed plans and decided to move to a different location. The property is still family-owned. It is possible that this project could still happen in the future.
Midcentury Modern Inspired New Construction
With our client, we dreamed this design for a wooded lot in North Crows Nest neighborhood, Indianapolis. From the street, the design is understated. Screenwalls shield interior and pool-deck from view. Also, entry sequence is partially hidden and experiential. To the rear, the interiors opened to exterior and south light with sheltered outdoor space.
Since initial construction budget expectations didn’t align with the desired design direction and scope, client elected to explore other alternatives.
Midcentury Ranch Addition
Our vision for this Midcentury Ranch included adding a completely new open-concept living wing to the left. And to the right, the original shell served mainly as bedrooms, including home-office and master suite. Beneath the new living spaces lives a home office space. The space between the two primary volumes includes new main entrance hall and monumental stair connecting all levels. The bedroom wing includes shared common space opening onto the outdoor terrace. new addition also opens directly onto the terrace from living, screened porch, and entrance hall.
This vision was spot-on with client design goals, but not client budget goals. This vision was filed, and we worked with client on a downsized, phased version of the plan that is still in-process years later.
Modern Dream Home
We designed this project in 2006 with our client to develop their modern dream home on their lot on Hussey Lane in Carmel. It was a great process that our client shelved near the end of schematic design. Later, client sold the lot with copies of our schematic designs, and we were able to work with the new buyer on a much different kind of home that did get built.
Yes, we will be adding more unbuilt works, so be sure to check-back regularly to see what’s next!