Project posted by Cook Architecture

twin modern house(s)

Structure
House (Single Residence)
Style
Modern
Vibrant colors at the entry to House A, a nod to the graphic palette of Case Study House No. 9
Vibrant colors at the entry to House A, a nod to the graphic palette of Case Study House No. 9
Enhanced outdoor spaces
Enhanced outdoor spaces
House A maintains the same design language as its counterpart on a more modest budget
House A maintains the same design language as its counterpart on a more modest budget
Front entry
Front entry
New entry and enlarged living space
New entry and enlarged living space
High transom windows allow light to enter in varying ways throughout the day and change with the seasons
High transom windows allow light to enter in varying ways throughout the day and change with the seasons
Lighting is dynamic rather than rigid, with undulating placements that add visual interest, accentuate the high geometric windows, and complement the ceiling heights
Lighting is dynamic rather than rigid, with undulating placements that add visual interest, accentuate the high geometric windows, and complement the ceiling heights
Expansive windows positioned to frame views of trees and sky
Expansive windows positioned to frame views of trees and sky
Retaining the original core structures, the designs involved renovating select areas and adding carefully planned spaces around the existing homes
Retaining the original core structures, the designs involved renovating select areas and adding carefully planned spaces around the existing homes
Custom ash shelving high in the new Dining Room
Custom ash shelving high in the new Dining Room
Dining Room
Dining Room
House A enjoys a view of its architectural twin
House A enjoys a view of its architectural twin
Custom window in the child's bedroom balances privacy with a framed view of the sky
Custom window in the child's bedroom balances privacy with a framed view of the sky
Master Bathroom featuring custom ash vanity and terrazzo tile
Master Bathroom featuring custom ash vanity and terrazzo tile
Nakamoto charred wood Shou Sugi Ban siding
Nakamoto charred wood Shou Sugi Ban siding
Shared materials, such as unpainted cement panels, Shou Sugi Ban siding, and site-built Douglas Fir window frames, help unify the architectural language of the two homes
Shared materials, such as unpainted cement panels, Shou Sugi Ban siding, and site-built Douglas Fir window frames, help unify the architectural language of the two homes
Semi-private outdoor spaces featuring custom breezeblock walls
Semi-private outdoor spaces featuring custom breezeblock walls

23 more photos

Credits

Interior Design
Landscape Design
Native Plant Landscape Design
Builder
Modern Constructs
Photographer
John Cole Photography

From Cook Architecture

This project represents a unique and meaningful design effort rooted in the collaborative spirit of two neighbors who share a close friendship and a lively, overlapping family life. The families chose to undertake simultaneous renovations with our firm. The intent of these twin projects was to create living environments that complement each other while still responding to each family’s individual needs and in context with each home’s unique existing architectural elements.

Situated in a social community, both families wanted designs, particularly a front porch and entry, that would welcome neighbors, encourage connection, and reflect the social fabric of the neighborhood. The designs integrate mid-century modern design elements, drawing inspiration from the work of A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons. Open floor plans, expansive glass facades, and natural tactile materials like Douglas Fir tongue and groove ceilings combine with modern improvements to create timeless spaces.