CHALK CLIFFS RESIDENCE
A word that’s not used often enough in architecture is symbiosis. Architecture takes an incredible amount of inspiration from the site, and it has a huge effect on the very same site after it has been created. When combining a word like symbiosis with the conceptual idea of permanence, extreme care must be taken to study, and enhance the qualities that the site has and will offer. A project should work with a site, not take advantage of it. The site at the Chalk Cliffs residence has incredible, and different experiences in every direction.
A river traces through the earth at your feet, while the white chalky cliffs command your vision to the sky. Looking to the north, your eye is led into the distant valley, while a forest protects from the south. In all directions, this project exemplifies contrast. The vision was to create an instrument for living that connects to place.
The architecture negotiates the contrasting views as two simple bars emerging from the landscape. In addition to separating the public from the private spaces, the bars also contain a circulation zone that emphasizes the expansive vertical contrast of the site, allowing simultaneous views of the cliffs above to the river below.
The primary programs are offset from the high verticals so that they can take full advantage of the vast horizontal views on the public side of the house, and enhance the seclusion as the private side embeds itself into a forest.
NATHROP, COLORADO
Builder: Paul Inge Custom Building
