Place Architecture:Design

Since the original exterior of this 1960s midcentury modern home was showing its age, and the rear yard was overgrown and inhospitable, the goal was to add an exterior living space where the homeowners could relax and entertain while enjoying the serenity of the landscape. Baltimore’s Place Architecture:Design envisioned two porch spaces and a stone-filled rectangular slot, between the house and covered porch, allowing light to enter the existing interior, while giving accessibility to the porch. “The proportions are really nice,” says Wetmore.

Place Architecture:Design

This renovation reimagines a timeless design while staying true to the original style of this 1960s midcentury modern house. The clients, who had a love for modern design and minimalist aesthetics, wanted to expand their living space by connecting the kitchen and dining areas. To accomplish the client’s goal of an open floor plan, it was necessary to install a steel beam for structural support, which added an industrial element to the new living space. “This project is very nicely done, bringing modern elements while highlighting the midcentury elements of the original house,” noted Rossomando. “The neutral palette of materials and fun lighting choices bring warmth and energy to the interiors.”

Place Architecture:Design

Built in 1952, this one-story brick courtyard house is perched on a wooded plateau, overlooking 4.5 acres of specimen trees and flowering gardens. The house sits on the site, shielding the courtyard from the driveway. The result was a circuitous path from the driveway through the courtyard to a formal entrance. This inward focus turned the courtyard into the front yard. The biggest challenge for Place Architecture: Design was changing the experience upon entering the home. Flipping the front door and porch to face the street, they established an outward presence embracing the neighborhood. The U-shaped footprint creates a tranquil outdoor private garden, easily accessible from the main living space. Lined with floor-to-ceiling glass, the rooms blur the line between indoor and outdoor space.

Place Architecture:Design

The clients, a painter and photographer, brought to the table very distinct and creative ideas. The collective objective was to reimagine the tired, traditional interior and exterior of the existing home with a whole-house renovation that provided an open floor plan, ample natural light, energy-efficient systems, and updated finishes with a modern aesthetic. Walnut elements were used to add warmth and definition to the entry, kitchen, and living room, complementing the wide-plank, white oak floors. The wood slatted ceiling was hung to define and add texture to the kitchen and at the entry, floor-to-ceiling walnut-paneled walls with flush hidden doors conceal the walk-in pantry, powder room, and closet.