“Houses are living things,” observes project architect Elizabeth Smith of Fanas Architecture. “They have to adapt to changing times and circumstances.” This philosophy was one of the overriding elements of this wonderful light and airy bungalow. “The exterior of the home reflects the timeless aesthetic of the Craftsman style, while the open, contemporary floor plan is what most people desire today.”
The character and delight of this fanciful, fresh modern bungalow is a result of the collaboration of an artistic client and the artistic architects. “It’s been designed inside and out to be a creative sanctuary that inspires artistic expression while stimulating harmonious creativity.”
After recently being widowed, the owner sought to move from outside city limits, eventually finding this perfect, but small, available property. She and the design team embraced the challenge as a rare opportunity and have created the peaceful sanctuary that she had yearned for in a home.
The design takes into account the fabric of the neighborhood while responding to the dreams and goals of the owner. The attention to detail begins as you walk up the modern entry path—hinting at the contemporary interior. A welcoming front porch of purple and green reflect the bold artistic nature of the owner, juxtaposed against the traditional detailing of a bungalow.
The entry opens to the comfortable, modern living room, which shares the multi-sided fireplace, providing two-story wall space. The abundant windows flood the open main level living spaces with natural light and provide wonderful views from all of the spaces. Wall spaces and dedicated niches for display were carefully designed to accommodate her numerous works of art. The inviting kitchen and dining are designed to bring family together and connect them to the beautiful outdoor living space, which is open and accessible from the kitchen and living room. Completing the main floor design is the master suite, which provides the ability to age-in-place. The living spaces on the main level flow together, allowing the home to live larger than its actual size.
The interior finishes of the home are a variation of the exterior. Muted greens and purples are evident throughout, with darker purple accents, and even a purple sofa and chairs. Tiles and accents are glass and brushed stainless steel, lending to the light and bright feel of the space. The living room chandelier is a reclaimed turn-of-the-last-century gas fixture, which has been retrofitted to burn both gas (up lights) and LED (downlights), providing a nod to the home's ancestry.
In addition to space to display her art, gardening and outdoor living were also priorities. Mixing the two, placed above the garage and adjacent to her art studio, is the roof-top garden, creating a private sanctuary (with a view). It’s the perfect combination of home and inspiration.
Fänas; Gaelic - 1) space 2) opportunity.