Breath of fresh air

Vintage '50s modernity meets post-industrial chic that could well be a description of the architectural language that defines this project.

Architect Nils Finne of Finne Architects says although the extensive remodeling of the '50s house builds on the original architectural style, the project required an almost total rebuild of the interior.

"Some key features were retained, such as the exposed beam ceiling in the kitchen and family living area and the terrazzo floors," he says. "Everything else was gutted, and replaced to create a home better suited to modern living."

The kitchen was extended by several feet and fully opened up to the dining and family living areas. New, larger windows were added to maximize an attractive wooded outlook, and an existing skylight was replaced with clerestory windows.

Finne says the owners expressed interest in highly detailed handcrafted cabinetry, as opposed to a more sterile, minimalist look. Working closely with the clients, Finne designed custom cherry cabinetry with inset panels in a woven wood pattern.

"This design involved rather a lot of prototyping," says the architect. "The panels were created using sophisticated CNC routing machinery. All the panels are 18in high this meant we could order a continuous run, which provided efficiencies.

"For continuity, we introduced similar cherry and resin cabinets to a dramatic accent wall clad in weathered steel panels. The cabinets appear to float against the steel wall, which undulates in and out, creating a very sculptural presence. Visually, this helps to tie together the kitchen and dining area. Similar cabinets also feature in the bathrooms."

Finne says the larger cabinets and the panels on the integrated refrigerator have a smooth finish that contrasts with the textured panels, further emphasizing their difference.

The cherry cabinets are paired with quartz countertops in an earth tone that complements the terrazzo floor. In contrast, the bar counter features one-inch-thick cast glass on exposed steel supports. The cloud-like glass is illuminated by uplights in the island cabinetry.

Story by: Trendsideas