The Mastery of an Eichler

Image source: @midcenturyhome.com

While researching interior courtyard designs in 2009 I very happily stumbled across the name; Eichler. If you live in sunny California you will already be well acquainted with the mid-century modern homes built by the forward-thinking and brilliant developer, Joseph L. Eichler.

He built built over 11,000 homes between 1950 and 1974. Eichler’s are easily distinguished by; their immense panels of glass, the post and beam construction, mahogany interior panels, vertical exterior wood panelling and the ability connect a homes exterior to the interior with incredible views through access and vantage points. Although very popular, the atrium (pictured centrally below) is not a feature in all of his homes.

Image source: @eichlersocal.com

The boxy exterior of the home’s design is punctuated by beam overhangs, and garage/carports to break up the clean lines on the front exterior elevation. The clerestory windows in the perspective above offer a tiny glimpse to the light and openness that awaits upon entry. An Eichler home is all about the interchanging play of indoor/outdoor living space, and would have had a dynamic impact on family day-to-day living, not to mention the entertainment capabilities a home like this would have!

Image source: onekindesign.com

In this remodelled Eichler (above) you can see the central atrium from a secondary room. Typically the atrium would be surrounded on 3 sides by glass-panelled walls with sliding doors, and a solid wall for the 4th. The atrium is open to the sky above and the concrete floor is broken up on the perimeter with sections for rockery and plants, like cacti.

Image Source: eichlermidcentury.com

Eichler homes were truly an American Dream; they were affordable, stylish in design and available without discrimination. Communities of Eichler homes still exist and many (thankfully) have been preserved or renovated painstakingly back to their original glory.

If anyone can dream up how to build an interior open atrium in the northern snowy region I live, please let me know.

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Harmonious Alignment

What do get when your architect, electrician and cabinet designer have an amazing working relationship? -Harmonious alignment. Let’s take a look of a few examples:

The image above is a foyer by Beth Webb Interiors. The window is the obvious focal point, centered in this space, it creates a perfect pivot point. The window mullions divide the wall into four quadrants, the panel moulding emanates from it. The horizontal line is further emphasized by the sconces on either side as they are mounted at the same height as the divide. There are two bench drawers, reflecting the panels above. Just looking at this foyer gives you a zen vibe, which makes it the perfect resting spot. Read more

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Faux Plaster Ceiling

ceiling_decoright_white

The ceiling is one of the most ignored planes in the design world. However, with a thoughtfully executed plan, the result is delightful and can add such drama. Decoright is a company based out of Russia with fantastic capabilities to create a faux plaster ceiling. Classical motifs with attention to scale and detail are carefully recreated to fit perfectly in any room.

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Suite Over Garage

budd_tower

I love the idea of guest rooms or studios built over a garage. If they are separate from the home, they offer privacy that guests or someone with a home office can really enjoy. The Tower Studio seen above by architect Peter Brachvogel is a great example of a well designed guest house that pairs nicely with the main home’s architecture. See the upper floor plan below: Read more

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New River Bank Barn

New River Bank Barn Exterior

After being invited to a wonderful wedding reception held in a restored barn this summer, I am fascinated by these converted spaces (I measured one of the barn floor boards at 21″ wide, incredible!). They once held the sustaining grain store, feed and shelter for animals, but with care and thoughtfulness now provide an intriguing place to entertain.

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Beautiful Lake Home

Lake Keowee home built by Gabrielle Homes

Stepping in this beautiful home on Lake Keowee in South Carolina would be an ethereal experience. Gabriel Builders Inc. is known for attention to detail which is incredibly evident in the fantastic trim moulding detail in the foyer alone.

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Tour the 2010 Lottery Home

home tour mosaic

Everyone loves a home tour! Especially another lovely home from the Princess Margaret Home Lottery. This grand prize home was designed by Jack Celli of Greenpark Homes. This stunning mirror mosaic tile graces the wall facing the entrance. Talk about first impressions.

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Architect Michael Upwall

Michael Upwall Ski Lodge Utah

The chilly air and perfect snowboarding/ skiing weather has got me thinking about designer lodges, particularly the stellar lodges by Architect Michael Upwall. Born in Utah, Michael understands the temperments and overall glory of beautiful Utah, where he designed this ultimate skiers haven.

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Corinthian Columns

Corinthian Column with Acanthus leaf and Volute Detail from Forum of Agustus Temple of Mars the Avenger

My favorite architectural element would have to be columns. Out of the three types; Ionic, Doric, and Corinthian, the later is the most detailed and sublime. This image is taken from the Lantern Slides of Classical Antiquity from Bryn Maur College. This capital detail shows the volute (the scroll) and acanthus leaves that generally indicate a Corinthian column. This particular capital is from the Forum of Augustus, Temple of Mars the Avenger. It is certainly impressive how the artisans sculpted this so intricately out of stone.

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Stairway to Heaven

petit palais staircase grand stairs metal railing

The Petit Palais (Small palace) in Paris, France is a museum with a staircase that is as sculptural and awe inspiring as some of the pieces themselves. Just look at the railing return at the base of the staircase, the metal scrollwork is quite elaborate.

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