model

1/8” scale model of new modern residence

Located near the bank of a wooded reservoir in Southeastern PA, this private residence will be completed in late 2016. One of the programmatic objectives was creating flexible spaces that took advantage of the beautiful site. The owners wanted to savor the views of the reservoir from the comfort of their home, so we played with the

interpenetration of interior and exterior space to achieve this.

entry and road-facing side

reservoir-facing side

Allowing easy access to the reservoir-facing side of the property, two decks open up flush with the interior floor levels extending them outward. To experience the same views from inside, a two-story facade of

windows protrudes linking the great room below with the master bedroom above. The green areas on the model indicate planted roof gardens which will act as a rainwater drainage and management system.

The site has a significant downward-sloping grade towards the reservoir. This allowed for an interesting opportunity to design the house specifically for its unique set of conditions instead of a one-size-fits all solution.

To create the model, I used museum board, foam core, basswood, glue, three cut fingers, a bit too much time, and an abundance of dirty chai lattes.