The directive was unusual, to say the least. “We want simple, modern, black. Now go do your thing.” One additional requirement was then added: the house would need to be built for the same price per square foot as the “normal” new homes around it. In this traditional 1920s enclave, a poorly executed solution would not sit well with the neighbors. The design team embraced this challenge. The solution is bold, simple, striking, and inviting — all at once. The team was careful to eliminate first-floor visual barriers. The result, clean views from front porch to back yard, softens the Johnny Cash look for a more inviting feel. The dark stained cedar and black steel palette diminishes the scale of the home and provides a striking contrast to the spartan white interior. Adding to the dramatic effect, an oversized steel front door amplifies the threshold crossing experience. A single steel column supports a deep porch roof to contrast the tapered wood columns found elsewhere in adjacent homes and simultaneously maintain the “front porch neighborhood” feel.