A couple wanted a weekend retreat without spending a majority of their getaway in an automobile. Therefore, a lot was purchased along the Rocky River with the vision of creating a nearby escape less than five miles away from their home. This 1,300 sf 24’ x 24’ dwelling is divided into a four square quadrant with the goal to create a variety of interior and exterior experiences while maintaining a rather small footprint. Typically, when going on a weekend retreat one has the drive time to decompress. However, without this, the goal was to create a procession from the car to the house to signify such change of context. This concept was achieved through the use of a wood slatted screen wall which must be passed through. After winding around a collection of poured concrete steps and walls one comes to a wood plank bridge and crosses over a Japanese garden leaving all the stresses of the daily world behind. The house is structured around a nine column steel frame grid, which reinforces the impression one gets of the four quadrants. The two rear quadrants intentionally house enclosed program space but once passed through, the floor plan completely opens to long views down to the mouth of the river into Lake Erie. On the second floor the four square grid is stacked with one quadrant removed for the two story living area on the first floor to capture heightened views down the river. In a move to create complete separation there is a one quadrant roof top office with surrounding roof top garden space. The rooftop office is accessed through a unique approach by exiting onto a steel grated staircase which wraps up the exterior facade of the house. This experience provides an additional retreat within their weekend getaway, and serves as the apex of the house where one can completely enjoy the views of Lake Erie disappearing over the horizon. Visually the house extends into the riverside site, but the four quadrant axis also physically extends creating a series of experiences out on the property. The Northeast kitchen quadrant extends out to become an exterior kitchen & dining space. The two-story Northwest living room quadrant extends out to a series of wrap around steps and lounge seating. A fire pit sits in this quadrant as well farther out in the lawn. A fruit and vegetable garden sits out in the Southwest quadrant in near proximity to the shed, and the entry sequence is contained within the Southeast quadrant extension. Internally and externally the whole house is organized in a simple and concise way and achieves the ultimate goal of creating many different experiences within a rationally sized footprint. Photo: Sergiu Stoian

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

The proverbial 'big picture' reflects how the bluestone patio spaces relate to each other and to the home. The landscape is subdued and low-profile, allowing easy access for the family into the lawn and play space. Bluestone Clarendon Hills

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

Babcock Custom Pools presents its latest marvel, Signal Hills, that transcends the typical pool experience to the apex of opulence and sophistication. Concealed in the urban jungle, this aquatic heaven showcases a spectrum of awe-inspiring facilities that will leave you spellbound. One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Hills is its seamless combination of coping and decking, fostering a uniform and sophisticated flow from the pool to its environment. This creative design innovation not only amplifies the beauty of the pool, but it also acts as a crucial safety measure, ensuring a secure and anti-slip surface for all patrons. The elevated tile spa is a show-stopper in the Signal Hills project, offering warm water jets to knead away anxiety and stress while you bask in the magnificent views of the metropolis. Whether you seek a moment of solace after a grueling day or crave an unrivaled spa experience, the spa at Signal Hills caters to your every need. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Signal Hills project also features a serene spa, tailored for you to escape the chaos of the city. With warm water, serene surroundings, and captivating views, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a distant paradise. The Signal Hills pool boasts soft curves that amplify its sophistication and elegance, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for lazy afternoons or evening get-togethers with friends. This refined touch distinguishes the pool from others, making it the very essence of style and luxury. In conclusion, Babcock Custom Pools has exceeded all expectations with the Signal Hills project. Its unique design elements, such as the seamless coping and deck, the elevated tile spa, and the tranquil spa for relaxation, along with the sophisticated curves of the pool, make this project an unprecedented and unforgettable experience. If you seek a pool that embodies sophistication, luxury, and elegance, Signal Hills is your answer.

In Arizona we love our tile. When it comes to tile flooring, great design doesn’t have to stop at the back door! Freezing and thawing are not conditions we typically experience here, so taking the tile outside can expand your design to include the outdoors where we love to live. This travertine patio in Scottsdale extends the old world look from inside to the expansive patio outside. The seamless transition creates a beautiful outdoor living space to be envied.

A couple wanted a weekend retreat without spending a majority of their getaway in an automobile. Therefore, a lot was purchased along the Rocky River with the vision of creating a nearby escape less than five miles away from their home. This 1,300 sf 24’ x 24’ dwelling is divided into a four square quadrant with the goal to create a variety of interior and exterior experiences while maintaining a rather small footprint. Typically, when going on a weekend retreat one has the drive time to decompress. However, without this, the goal was to create a procession from the car to the house to signify such change of context. This concept was achieved through the use of a wood slatted screen wall which must be passed through. After winding around a collection of poured concrete steps and walls one comes to a wood plank bridge and crosses over a Japanese garden leaving all the stresses of the daily world behind. The house is structured around a nine column steel frame grid, which reinforces the impression one gets of the four quadrants. The two rear quadrants intentionally house enclosed program space but once passed through, the floor plan completely opens to long views down to the mouth of the river into Lake Erie. On the second floor the four square grid is stacked with one quadrant removed for the two story living area on the first floor to capture heightened views down the river. In a move to create complete separation there is a one quadrant roof top office with surrounding roof top garden space. The rooftop office is accessed through a unique approach by exiting onto a steel grated staircase which wraps up the exterior facade of the house. This experience provides an additional retreat within their weekend getaway, and serves as the apex of the house where one can completely enjoy the views of Lake Erie disappearing over the horizon. Visually the house extends into the riverside site, but the four quadrant axis also physically extends creating a series of experiences out on the property. The Northeast kitchen quadrant extends out to become an exterior kitchen & dining space. The two-story Northwest living room quadrant extends out to a series of wrap around steps and lounge seating. A fire pit sits in this quadrant as well farther out in the lawn. A fruit and vegetable garden sits out in the Southwest quadrant in near proximity to the shed, and the entry sequence is contained within the Southeast quadrant extension. Internally and externally the whole house is organized in a simple and concise way and achieves the ultimate goal of creating many different experiences within a rationally sized footprint.

A living room in a Parisian apartment is typically designed with an emphasis on elegance and sophistication. The room is often spacious, with high ceilings, large windows, and intricate architectural details such as ornate moldings and intricate cornices. The decor is typically characterized by a mix of classic and modern styles, with a focus on luxury and comfort. Plush velvet sofas, antique coffee tables, and intricate chandeliers are often featured. The color palette is typically neutral, with accents of gold or metallics adding a touch of glamour. Overall, a living room in a Parisian apartment is a stunning blend of history and modernity, combining classic design elements with contemporary comforts.