2999
Crownview Ct. , Grand Rapids, MI:
When built in 1991, the owners wanted to build a house that would
gracefully accommodate the changing needs of their two growing
children, while allowing the adults appropriately sophisticated
spaces in which they could entertain, relax and converse with their
families. They also sought to express their taste and lifestyle in a
more modern fashion than what is generally available in new homes in
this area.
Located on a hill top lot in a new development, the house was designed
to use the steep back bank and rear view of the existing woods to best
advantage. The first floor features the primary living and
entertaining spaces: kitchen, living room, guest suite, and dining
room. The second floor houses the master suite and private home
office. The lower level contains the family room, children’s bedrooms
and bath, laundry and mechanical rooms. This level is entirely
concealed from the front of the house; it features extensive window
groupings that frame the wooded view in the rear and patio doors that
provide access to the terrace.
The
dining room is the formal focus of the first floor. Located in view of
the double doored entry, it is approached by a wide vestibule space
which terminates in three stairs that raise the floors of the dining
room and adjacent living room and kitchen. The dining room also has a
lower ceiling, thus visually compressing the space and placing it in
contrast to the adjacent tall spaces. The field of windows at the rear
provides a living mural of leaves and light. A two sided fireplace
divides the dining and living rooms . In contrast to the dining room,
the living room’s focus is up, rather than out, as the tall ceiling
emphasizes the sculptural qualities of the stair and the fireplace.
The
second floor is located under the high point of the wide gable roof
that covers the overall structure. The master bedroom faces the rear
of the house, and the home office provides a view overlooking the
front approach to the house. Connecting these rooms are two parallel
circulation spaces: an open catwalk that overlooks the living room and
stairs, and a private corridor that is outfitted with the master
dressing room and walkthrough bathroom.
The
various components of the house are embraced by one simple roof form
which visually and spatially simplifies the house. The garage door
opening sets a visual motif that is repeated across the front of the
house. These openings form a loggia: a covered promenade that connects
the front of the house to its side and rear. The center opening is
partially infilled with an open frame that suggests a Japanese Tori
gate: an antique symbol of entrance and welcome. |