LoftyWords: Continuing coverage from the 2006 AIA Homes TourEmily Little, Architect!

With the pending arrival of our newest and smallest family member my demands in the home have changed. Now not only do I want a stylish, elegant space, I also demand that space to actually function for living. Yes, I know this is a novel concept that flies in the face of many but when I envision the pitter patter of little feet I also see, spills, falls and toys everywhere. This years Austin AIA show shined a spot light on one architect who has managed to create a home that is not only aesthetically pleasing with a casual elegance but she also made the home a welcoming family friendly environment.

Emily Little’s renovation of a duplex into a single family home was complicated but...

...she met the challenge. Little used durable materials and bright colors to give the home a bright inviting feel. Apple green trim, burnt orange counters and a built in diner-style table make this house able to stand up to anything a growing family can throw at it.

The house opens to a dining room separated from, what can be called a true conversation area, by Asian inspired wooden screens. The screens are simple geometric shapes on tracks so they can slide and be rearranged to work with the family’s changing needs. The conversation area is not large, but it doesn’t need to be. With just enough room for a crescent shaped mid-century modern sectional the space allows ample flow and intimacy, perfect for an adult conversation over cocktails. The kitchen is large with plenty of counter space for multiple cooks. The one oddity is the shape. Instead of straight lines of counters, the kitchen narrows in the center, almost creating two kitchen spaces. The kitchen also doubles as an inviting living space. With a diner style booth, a large bar and a built in window bench covered in plush durable cushions the kitchen has plenty of room for guests to get cozy while the food is prepared. A small entry nook right off the kitchen has built in shelves and a large chalkboard for family notes, and childrens’ toys to keep the rest of the home organized.

Moving from the kitchen to the upstairs area you climb the bright staircase painted Granny Smith Green and flooded with light from windows at the top of the ceiling. The staircase opens to a alcove. The children’s rooms were kept simple and clean with plenty of windows to make up for the small size. The true gem of the upstairs was the master bedroom and bathroom. The master bedroom was pure Asian inspiration with a platform bed covered in Japanese sleeping mats and painted fabric hanging from the ceiling on tracks at the foot of the bed to obscure the view of the bed from the hallway. The bathroom is an escape. It is small but with a large soaking tub made of poured concrete that bathroom could easily entice a person to stay forever. The spa feel created by the tub is continued with wood and grey stone accents. The natural materials and colors create a soothing environment perfect to relax in after the kids have gone to bed.

The house blends perfectly with the family’s own Asian and mid-century modern pieces to create an eclectic yet soothing space full of energy and playfulness. That is the true test of an architect, their ability to blend what is already there with the family’s needs and possible future needs.

Little’s use of space to create subtle definitions keeps the house from feeling formal or too structured. This flexibility is vital for an evolving family. This house was pure family funky.

Little herself is a friendly, intelligent woman who looks forward to a challenge to stretch her skill. In addition to this home and her wealthy body of pre-existing work, Little has put her talents toward designing homes for the forward thinking green subdivision, Agave (

Austin

[Emily Little web site] [AIA

Austin

] [Agave]

Ed Note:

This piece introduces a new writer to LoftyWords.com, Cheryl Rowley. Cheryl is a veteran print writer currently writing for a large daily newspaper in central

Texas

, as well as her own successful book revue blog, AverageReader.com. Cheryl’s task will be to bring a softer tone to LoftyWords.com, writing on topics ranging from design to architecture from a women’s, point of view.

Congratulations Cheryl!

Drew Moynihan
Publisher
B2 MediaNet