Architect Mark Peters, principal of Studio Dwell, was charged with creating a clean, bright, modernist home that blurred the line between inside and out. Large windows of clear and frosted glass, plus landscaped courtyards on three sides accomplished that goal, while maintaining the occupants’ privacy on this urban lot.
On the exterior, Peters used ground face masonry units that measure 4 inches by 16 inches. “They’re much bigger than a brick,” says Peters of the terrazzo-like blocks, “but the proportion of brick is there.” Raked horizontal mortar joints showcase craft and texture while maintaining a minimalist intent.
Clean, white design marks the interior, a backdrop for the owners’ art collection. Providing ample wall space can be tough in any home with lots of windows, but Peters kept them to a minimum on the home’s north side, which faces a school and a bus stop. This made space for art, and provided privacy—though there are windows on three sides of the house, none have direct views to the street. An open staircase with glass rails and windows in the stairwell lets in yet more light. “There’s all this light bouncing through the house,” says Peters, “but you don’t quite know where it’s coming from.”
Learn more about markets featured in this article: Chicago, IL.
