The Ely family's property was originally the garage of an adjacent home. After the lot was severed in 1939, a brick duplex was erected. The house is situated at the end of a driveway, slightly removed from the neighbors' residences. Because of this, the family is provided with both privacy and unparalleled views of the city.Though uncompromisingly modern in form, the addition is clad in rough-sawn cedar, and portions of it are painted black. Left untreated, the siding has weathered quickly, allowing the box to appear as if it may have always been there.