Commissioned by a local interior designer, the unique challenge of the Tubb’s Residence was to design a house so that the creative talents and personality of the Owner are highlighted above the architecture. The collaborative work is marked by restraint and respect. The house is museum-like in detailing – trusting that the Owner’s own design talents will fill living spaces with a composition of furniture, art and light.

The composition of spaces is theatrical – a simple, open plan with dramatic sectional transitions that reflect the topography of the lot. Introduced by a sunken courtyard, the front lawn acts as the greeting room for the house. The kitchen serves as a stage for entertaining small groupings of guests on the main level. The double height living area is flanked by balconies that cantilever from each of the second floor bedrooms. The porches extend into the terraced backyard that is encircled by a curtain of black bamboo.

The material palette ranges from the refined to the common place. The limestone façade and villa-like hipped roof present the house to the historic neighborhood. The remaining faces of the house are stark, economic compositions of mortar-washed brick and a minimal allowance of fenestration. At entry level - Brazilian walnut floors are contrasted with stainless steel countertops in the kitchen and bath vanities. The concrete floors and exposed floor joists and conduit of the basement areas are given eloquence by the finishing techniques and careful installation. The common screened porch is transfigured with exaggerated proportions and subtle detailing.