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Architects: Dimster Architecture
- Year: 2012
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Photographs:Eric Staudenmaier, Chibi Moku
Text description provided by the architects. The Dual House is a new home for two related families. While appearing to be a single building, two structures are placed back-to-back allowing for private garden entries as well as a communal roof deck. The garage, bedrooms, and entry are incorporated on the lower level, with the convertible bedroom/office having direct access to the garden. On the second floor, the directional emphasis shifts to the long alley, highlighting the stairs, views, and available light for the main living spaces along this façade. Facing the more private side of the building is a third bedroom with a private bath. The suspended steel stairs are a focal point for both the interior as well as the exterior. The animated movement along the stairs is heightened with each step as the path bends and widens leading to the collective open space on the roof deck. The combined kitchen and dining space is approached in a novel way with a built-in banquette and a custom table that seats 12, which easily converts into a kitchen island for more counter space.
Among the unique aspects of these dual homes, spaces are revealed in glimpses as the visitor moves through the building. A suggestion of the roof garden is visible through a high, horizontal slit window in the living room. The master bath and kitchen share a window of frosted glass that capitalizes on borrowed light and provides playful silhouettes. The suspended stair with its open treads engages the visitor a unique experience of eye contact and vantage points.
In conceptualizing the space the firm placed special attention to the current and possible future needs of the families. Bedrooms are designed to be easily convertible into office or den space. The garage was wired for Internet access for office expansion. On the lower level, the front room and current workspace has deeper closets to hide the office essentials. This same closet has plumbing hook-ups for a future in-law tea kitchen. Even the structural walls are placed for potential future expansion of the lower bedrooms into a large private suite.
Since its founding in 2001 Dimster Architecture has focused on providing a minimalist approach to all aspects of design. Principal and founder Don Dimster established his firm locally, but draws from a globally trained skill set. Studying and working in Germany and Vienna he was inspired by great contemporary masters. In bringing this influence to his own work, he has successfully created a vision of quiet simplicity. The extensive portfolio of Dimster Architecture projects include residential, gallery, restaurants, retail and commercial spaces. Each project is approached in a unique way with careful thought to the complexity and opportunities provided as well as to the specific needs of the client. In addition to architecture, Don’s passion for design transcends into the interior in the form of original furniture and art.
