A simple idea executed well may lead to a number of the most tasteful and evocative compositions. Whether architecture, style or perhaps cuisine, inspired and creative restraint drives focused designs that don’t rely on superfluous adornments because of their own substance. Instead, every choice strengthens the central theme of a strong idea. For architect Matthew Hufft, a client’s natural fascination with curves sparked the concept of her house, leading to a house that accommodates its owners while revealing unique uses of the curve during.
Hufft Projects
This isn’t a job that began with a name and cried all layout decisions to follow in its wake. By comparison, states Hufft, the design process is really what dictated the shape and form of the house, like a sculpture. What starts as a good concept produces a job that neatly joins all attributes. Often, it is just after the design is finished that the theme clearly show itself to Hufft.
Hufft Projects
When Hufft was hired to the mind the design of the house, the family had purchased this two-acre plot in the center of a 13-lot subdivision in Springfield, Mo.. The house has been designed to be inward focused, to accommodate future growth on all four sides.
Ultimately, the customers decided to purchase the entire development and conserve the surrounding open space. While the house had been designed, this abandoned boundless possibilities for its landscape.
The landscape design of the Curved House starkly contrasts the hyper customized and designed nature of the structure. Landscape architect John Galloway planted the remaining 13 acres of property with native prairie grasses.
A natural berm planted with sumac trees lines the approach to the house. As the trees mature, they will create a good screen along the entry road, making the house visible only through Galloway’s aperture installment.
Although the courtyard no longer functions as the only landscape feature of the house, the demand for this central core is equally as vital as when it was designed. It anchors the house and the customers’ place within the landscape. Rather than using this room as an exterior escape, it may serve as sheltered refuge to get a house that drifts in 13 acres of prairie.
Hufft Projects
While the courtyard was intended to be enjoyed outdoors, it was also necessary to think about the climate of Missouri prohibits being outside yearlong. Planted directly in the center of the house is a flowering dogwood — Missouri’s state tree. Despite harsh weather, the progression of the tree during the entire year will connect the interior with all the landscape.
Hufft Projects
In tune with Hufft’s design philosophy, the Curved House elegantly reaffirms its theme throughout the house. The shelves that line the hallways hug the contours created by exterior walls.
The steps to the pool gracefully arc in unison.
Even right angles are rounded out.
A unique aspect of Hufft’s workplace is that along with a full service design studio, in addition they possess an in-house fabrication shop — making many of these ultra-custom facets possible.
The customers’ interest in sustainability and low-energy options prompted Hufft to implement alternate energy sources for powering the house, as well as using local and reclaimed materials to construct it. The entire pool cabana is powered by photovoltaic cells, and a geothermal system on the property cools and heats the house.
The light gray color of the locally-sourced Spanish tile roof reflects solar heat, keeping the house cool. Neighborhood black Endicott brick using a Manganese finish creates a superbly subtle sheen which nicely highlights the curves of the walls. Oiled Ipe wood, a sustainable substance, accents the brick, richly contrasting the green of the prairie grass.
Hufft Projects
Abundant natural light fills the house, which lowers the demand for artificial light and excess energy intake.
Hufft Projects
Commercial-grade aluminum windows complement the aesthetic of the house and require next-to-no maintenance.
Hufft Projects
Low-VOC finishes were used through the house. In the kitchen, the cabinets are reclaimed and the countertops are glass.
Hufft Projects
Hufft designs distances meant to inspire, but ultimately he intends to create houses that actually make you feel comfy — from the inside out. The Curved House is filled with warmth and light, and leaves you feeling as if you’ve just had a big breath of fresh air.
See more photos of the Curved House
Photography by Mike Sinclair
More:
Stunning Berkeley Courtyard House
Home Designs: The U-Shaped House Plan
The Case for Interior Courtyards
