Faced with a leaky roof, dry-rot repairs and peeling paint, the owners of this 1961 Edwards & Pittman, Eichler inspired home, saw an opportunity for a modern makeover.
Given recent wildfires a fire resistant standing seam metal roof was chosen to replace the worn shingles. A leaky flat roof entry was rebuilt with increased pitch, single ply roofing and concealed gutters to control rainwater, while the rotted original trellis was repaired and capped with metal flashing, all to extend their longevity and prevent reoccurring water damage.
The small wedge-shaped lot on a quiet cull de sac had extensive water wasting lawns and underutilized exterior spaces. Permeable patios were added in both front and rear yards: In the front, adjacent to the living room, a new entry courtyard enclosed by low cedar fences creates a sunny, usable, transition space off the street, replacing the ubiquitous suburban front lawn. In the back, off the kitchen and dining, new linear paving with gravel joints reinforces the linear space, while low seat walls and new accent fencing define gathering areas. New drought-tolerant plantings were used throughout, saving water and softening the rectilinear forms.
A new color scheme of deep grays with a new turquoise entry door accent contrasts with the subdued suburban neighbors and heighten the modernist intent. Though born of necessity these small simple measures, equal parts architecture and landscape, are sympathetic to the original, ensuring the mid-century modern intent of Edwards & Pittman will continue on for decades to come.
View Original