The goal of this project was to break conventional notions of what we “need” in a house and design for the clients specific lifestyle. KEM STUDIO went through a comprehensive research process to define the parameters of the project, analyze the client’s lifestyle and develop a clear idea for the project.
The big idea centered around three principles. First was to be modern, minimal and sustainable: focus on the experience with volume, light and interactions more than square footage. Second was to emphasize the interaction of the house with the site and hillside: draw from the owner’s rural background and her unconventional, creative interpretations. Third was to be super-efficient: the budget is very modest and the client’s desire is to have very little waste, a high level of sustainability and low maintenance.
The house was built on a narrow lot in Kansas City has a steel facade with reclaimed cypress cladding near the entrance. The entire structure sits atop a steel foundation set on concrete piers that were driven into solid stone.
The design met those goals and responded to our client’s lifestyle as a writer, musician, runner, cinephile and creative spirit. Functionally it translates into a 1,200 square foot, 2 bedroom, 2 bath home on a modest budget.
Project Details:
Location: Kansas City, USA
Type: Residential – Houses
Year built: 2013
Area: 1,200 square feet
Architects: KEM Studio – www.kemstudio.com
Collaborators: C&G Construction
Photographs: Mike Sinclair
