Balancing our client’s appreciation for their neighborhood’s vernacular and their love of bold styling, designing this home in downtown Rochester was an exciting challenge. The exterior proportions reference prairie style craftsman homes from the previous century with its large single hung windows and deep roof overhangs, while a striking black-and-white color scheme, varied applications of siding, and a sculptural double front door bring in modern design elements. A balance was struck with fitting in with the existing streetscape while pushing the home’s design boundaries; the home is designed to draw the eye and hold your attention.

Inside, the emphasis on striking elements and pairing classic symmetry with modern detailing is evident throughout the home. Creating a main focal point in an open living space filled with zones of activity was addressed by an eye-catching fireplace design. Strong leading lines—black window frames, the nearby kitchen countertop, the cantilevered ledge that transitions from built-in bench to hearth—serve to guide the eye through the adjacent rooms and to the fireplace. The notably modern three-sided design creates a volume that cantilevers above the ledge below. Warm wood paneling on the chimney volume echoes the nearby kitchen cabinets, promoting connection between rooms of the home. Wall space under the transom windows provides opportunity to feature modern artwork that further enlivens the living area with color and expressive lines, playing off of the colors of the nearby upholstered furniture. The nearby feature stair serves as the defining move of the home’s design as a sculptural but functional architectural element that was visually accessible throughout the open living space of the home. Overlooking Rochester Municipal Park, a custom feature window allows natural light to permeate both main and upper levels, while the stairs’ mono stringer with floating treads and glass handrail allow the light to pass fully into the living spaces within. At night, the stairway becomes a sculptural display from the exterior when illuminated by the interior lights, showcased as a beautiful architectural element that is meant to be seen and remembered.