citydeskstudio.com

Ben Awes, AIA; Chris Bach, AIA; Olivia Solari, Assoc. AIA; Dan Winden; Perri Kinsman

Crescendo

Project Type: New Build

Sponsors: Ridge Construction (Builder)

Situated on a wooded lot overlooking Minnehaha Creek in St. Louis Park, “Crescendo” is the result of an exciting creative collaboration between the clients, who are architecture aficionados, and the architect.

When the couple decided to build a new modern home on the site of the former family home, they wanted a single level living environment with a strong connection to the land and the creek. The clients envisioned the home as “a beautiful piece of architecture” where they could work, create, relax, and age gracefully in place with a family member, so they wanted a shared front door and a separate but equally beautiful apartment. They also wanted separation between respite (the primary suite) and work (a home office and a creative studio)—a simple request that drove the floor plan.

Inspired by the shared belief that “great architecture always has lift,” the architect responded to the site and the project goals with a striking modern home with elevated roof lines and clerestory windows that create a sense of “lift” and fill the home with natural light. Designed for easy, harmonious living now and in the future, the home features a modest kitchen, room for a piano and the owners’ collection of books, and a two-car garage.

The entryway opens to a pair of striking modern half-staircases with a shared landing, creating a natural division between the two living environments and leading to a separate entry and mudroom for the apartment, allowing the trio of residents to enjoy a fulfilling and creative life together, both today and in the future.

Framework for Design Excellence: Design for Economy, Well-Being, and Discovery

The architect’s work is naturally aligned with the Framework for Design Excellence, combining thoughtful design with readily available materials and common building techniques to create a home that meets the homeowners’ needs and budget. This project reflects several aspects of the Framework including Design for Economy. By creating a home with a separate but equally beautiful apartment where three adults can live, work, create and eventually, age gracefully in place, the design creates immeasurable short-term and long-term value for the occupants. The project also reflects Design for Well-Being by creating inclusivity for the couple and their sister-in-law, providing comfort and supporting their well-today and in the future. By orienting the home to the creek and creating views from as many rooms as possible, the design connects the occupants to place and nature. The project also reflects Design for Discovery. At every step of the design process, the homeowners were enthusiastic patrons, inviting the architect to design “a beautiful piece of architecture” with very few parameters. Empowered by their trust, respect for the creative process and appreciation for great design, the architect found inspiration in the project constraints, sculpting strategies that resolved the design challenges while creating a sense of discovery, delight and joy for the trio of occupants.

What is the AIA Framework for Design Excellence? Learn more »