Over the last couple of years, the firm has drastically expanded its services to perform both design and construction, and the Nestor Residence is an example of such a project. The firm now holds both state licenses to work as general contractors and as architects. While most design-build firms are managed by contractors, Halflants + Pichette will continue to be centered on design and be run by architects.
The 5,500 square foot house on St Petersburg’s Bayshore Boulevard faces Tampa Bay. The house is elevated to meet the flood requirements. On the water side, the roof extends a full 30 feet beyond the conditioned enclosure to create confortable shaded terraces. The roof is held on one side by a pair of exposed concrete columns aligned with the existing dock.
The large overhanging roof folds down to become a wing wall, shielding a distant power plant from view. The concrete columns, the roof, and the wing wall all taper towards Tampa Bay. Three linear openings including a long skylight over the double height living space are cut into to roof and the wing wall. They provide framed views of the sky and reinforce the orientation toward the water.
All of the private spaces are arranged around the double height volume of the living and dining room. The living is sunken 2 feet. This allows for a slight separation between the living and the dining while extending the line of sight to the water. While the bayside elevation is transparent to take full advantage of the view, the street façade also welcomes visitors with a wide entry stair and a generous shaded terrace.
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