An age-old architectural question is determining an eloquent technique to add to a structure that works cohesively. There is no single correct answer, but we believe that constant debate is necessary. This client commissioned us for a modern expression that fits our sensibilities – a perfect match.

Our initial planning study uncovered tight constraints within the zoning setbacks that limited our initial expansion concept. The owner decided they had no desire to seek a variance from the local borough. Fortunately, this caused us to reinvestigate the program, where our second look yielded a richer, more functional, and economical solution. Within these imaginary boundaries, the result is restrained but tailored. We also respected the a-b-a pattern of the existing, traditional format.

We believe with the owner that the contrasting modern bookends magnify the original 1920s home, yet the diagram remains classical. The North living room addition replaces an unused open porch. In contrast, a renovated portion of the existing house (within an earlier insensitive addition) lends a unique appearance with its reconfigured layout. It serves as a bulk of the home’s functional program. With the overdue maintenance included in the project, this is like a brand-new home.

Material selections developed over time but were influenced by the owner asking the architect to directly order the Zola (ThermoClad VL triple glazed II, Quadrat, F9 titanium) windows. This decision locked in a charcoal window color (RAL 7016) which became the chief influence in the remaining color decisions, such as the brick and interior paint color. The black and white contrast sets up a rule which found relief in the medium tone of the wood flooring and wood treatment to the stairs.

Construction was completed in the late summer of 2020