RES4 Chesapeake Bay House

Photograph by Floto+Warner, Courtesy of Resolution: 4 Architecture.

Words from the Architecture firm Resoultion: 4 Architecture

Built for the sole intention of entertaining, Camp Smull plays up its charming surroundings to a level on par with its owners' equally magnetic personalities. A dog photographer and jet setting international lecturer, the couple sought to create a contemporary retreat from daily life not only for themselves, but for their guests as well. Designed to delight and enchant, whatever time spent is well spent.

Marking the journey into fun and relaxation, a 50-foot ramp sets the path into the house. Offering a glimpse of what's ahead, upon approach the waterfront is framed through the window of the front passageway. The main level becomes the soul of the home, with the entry, a large outdoor deck, and zones for living, dining, and cooking occupying the L-shaped space. Understanding the social imperative of the plan, the path continues through touching upon all social enclaves, leaving the voyager to rest upon the main deck and an idyllic view of willowy trees, running children and floating vessels.

Photograph by Floto+Warner, Courtesy of Resolution: 4 Architecture.

The uppermost lever contains his and hers "go-away" spaces where husband and wife find exclusive spaces to privately amuse their guests. Though at first thought indistinguishable, each space provides a unique experience. Hers situated at the front of the house, offer sunset views and a welcoming podium for entering guests. His quarter, sitting on the opposing side, gives expansive waterfront views ahead, starry night views above, an open fireplace to warm up those chilly nights. Further disseminating the designation of the level of community and privacy preserved for each floor, the basement level contains the couple's master suite (the only bedroom in the house), complete with fireplace and water view as well as storage and a laundry room.

Photograph by Floto+Warner, Courtesy of Resolution: 4 Architecture.

The initial design faced several challenges. Due to the site setback, setback from the water, and the request of the owners to preserve a large tree on site, the residual area left for a thin lot and a small footprint upon which to build. The result was an exercise in managing and maximizing limited space to fulfill function without sacrificing spatial efficiency or aesthetic.

To avoid limiting the house's use to the warmer months, the 50-foot IPE ramp was constructed to include a radiant heat system below to melt away the winter ice. Cedar cladding and introduction of Cembonit were the chosen materials to compliment the home's natural surroundings. Rather than interrupting the natural order, the house sits amicably among the greenery.

Credits

• Text by Resolution: 4 Architecture
• Photographs by Floto+Warner, Courtesy of Resolution: 4 Architecture

View full page Pages: Previous Page 1 | 2