Pianoforte is a musical term referring to the variations in volume or loudness. Inspired by our clients’ love of all things with keys, the residence interprets the masculine form as ‘loud’ and the play of light as ‘soft’. The site required a strong response to the very active 1st Avenue to the south while transparency and perforations soften the form along Oneida Street. The L-shaped plan addresses the active corner while providing protection to the rear outdoor landscape. The entry becomes a gateway into this secret garden. Light breathes life into the living space in the morning and pours into the kitchen from the southern clerestory above. Our client, who currently plays the organ at weekly services, has working organ pipes that surround the fireplace enclosure. The pattern of the organ pipes is reflected in the perforated panels that screen the entry and filter light into the residence. Featured in Modern In Denver. (Photos by Chris Reilmann)