High impact

The 1970s were not exactly renowned for architectural advances. Even so-called modern houses were designed with a nod to tradition dark beams and millwork gave many houses a '50s country club look that was quite at odds with what was happening on the exterior.

This house, in a natural woodlands setting, typified that design approach. The new owners Peter and Caroline Repenning say the house was very dark and did not have an easy flow between rooms. It was also dominated by a large circular staircase of heavy dark wood.

Architects Jim Nagle and Rocco Castellano of Nagle Hartray Danker Kagan McKay Penney Architects say the once-gray exterior was also dreary and the house had become something of an eyesore.

"The entrance was not instantly obvious or inviting there was a large wall and an awkward access that made the house seem unwelcoming. Addressing the landscaping and the front of the house was critical," says Nagle.

To better signpost the entry, the team added a fixed awning, and the landscape was redesigned by Scott Byron & Co so there are trees framing the house and large boulders defining the path to the door. Because the house sits on a flood plain, it was necessary to put in place extensive drainage solutions, which have already proved effective.

Painting a barn-red wood stain on the house was probably the most significant visual change, however. The color introduces a vibrancy and sense of drama to the house this is especially noticeable on a large wall with diagonal siding. There are also red accents inside the house that provide visual continuity.

Nagle says many windows were altered to provide improved light and views and to create a more dynamic aesthetic.

"We needed to re-address the rhythm of the windows on the facade," he says. "We added and removed windows to ensure these would be in harmony with the architecture."

Castellano says the interior was completely gutted and refinished a process that involved considerable structural strengthening.

"We had to rebuild the entire second floor and introduce new tube steel columns to relieve pressure on the 20ft-high windows," he says.

The main stairway was also replaced with sleek stainless steel stairs with oak treads.

"The original stairway was monumental, and did not fit with the owners' desire for a crisp, clean and uncluttered interior," says Castellano. "It was not appropriate for the new streamlined aesthetic."

Working closely with interior designer Martha Pickrell, the architects created a clean-lined, light-filled living area that maximizes the room's double-height volume. A new fireplace with a cantilevered hearth and stainless steel surround replaces a vast copper chimney hood that extended the full height of the room.

Wide openings allow an easy flow to a formal dining space and adjacent library, which features extensive built-in shelving and sleek cabinets with touch door latches.

A wall between the kitchen and family room was removed to connect these two spaces and a new galley-style Bulthaup kitchen installed. To match the light wood of other built-in cabinetry, the kitchen cabinets are a light oak veneer. This is paired with stainless steel countertops that help keep the look cool and contemporary.

The extensive changes on the second floor better suit the needs of the empty-nester couple. Three small bedrooms were replaced by a generously sized guest suite. The master suite also underwent a design transformation. New windows were installed in the bedroom to maximize the wooded outlook. In addition, a line of clerestory windows were introduced to the master bathroom. These provide a glimpse of the treetops from the bed. The band of windows also helps to break up the massive scale of the exterior wall, says Nagle.

"The master suite is above the large garage," he says. "And although this was added after the house was originally constructed, it is seamlessly integrated with the rest of the interior."

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Doug Snower