Overview

The Haven project showcases a thoughtful reinterpretation of traditional American residential architecture through a minimalist, modern lens. This single-family home balances timeless materials with clean design, featuring a symmetrical brick façade, gabled rooflines, and carefully framed openings that create a calm and grounded presence. The home is designed to provide privacy and permanence while remaining visually connected to its natural, wooded surroundings.

Client Type

The project was commissioned by a private homeowner seeking a simple yet enduring residence that would prioritize function, clarity, and natural light. The client envisioned a home that felt strong and grounded, with classic materiality and modern spatial efficiency, supporting everyday family life and moments of quiet retreat.

Project Scope

The Haven project involved a complete architectural design package, focusing on structural simplicity, material honesty, and long-term durability. The layout was developed to be both highly functional and adaptable, with spaces that support modern living while maintaining a timeless architectural character. Key features include:

• Traditional gabled massing with a symmetrical brick exterior

• Dark-framed windows placed for both aesthetic rhythm and interior daylighting

• A central open-concept living area that balances connection and privacy

• Durable, low-maintenance materials selected for longevity and curb appeal

• Simple yet refined roof geometry that complements the home’s strong form

• A front-facing porch and covered entry, offering a transitional outdoor threshold

Challenges Addressed

A primary design challenge involved maintaining the integrity of a traditional brick exterior while introducing contemporary detailing and natural light. The home also had to provide privacy without feeling enclosed, which was addressed through careful window placement and interior zoning. Integrating the home into its wooded surroundings without disrupting the natural landscape also required sensitivity in both siting and material choices.

Goals Achieved

The Haven project meets the client’s goals of creating a quiet, lasting home that feels timeless yet modern. The final design delivers:

✔️ A strong, symmetrical façade with modern proportions
✔️ Durable materials and minimal ornamentation for a clean aesthetic
✔️ Well-balanced privacy and openness throughout the interior
✔️ A natural connection to the outdoors through proportioned openings
✔️ A home that feels calm, grounded, and enduring