Open Spaces and More

Open Spaces and More

In some architectural circles, the debate might be in naming the father of modern architecture- was it Frank Lloyd Wright with his clean lines and integration of nature or was it Louis Henry Sullivan with his creation of skyscrapers? Perhaps Ludwig Mies van der Rohe is the architect you identify with as having the premier minimalist design. Function over form is the rule for all, and when you are looking for crisp, clean lines in home plans, desiring an open floor plan, this one, HPP 21343, is for you. By designer Seth M. Nelson of Nelson Design Group, this home is slightly over 1900 square feet, has sloping ceilings, an open floor plan, formal dining room and more.

The front elevation of the home is a linear design that is typical of the modern style. The homeowner’s choice of materials for the exterior, such as natural stone, wood or even cement, will personalize the structure. Long narrow windows along the front and garage side allow light to pour in. Adding low foliage that is native to your area will enhance rather than detract from the architecture and will require less maintenance. The covered front porch, a perfect place for a stone or steel planter, invites you inside.

Entering the home through the front door, you will find stairs on the left that lead up to the sleeping loft. This space extends slightly more than 27 feet from left to right. The area could be used for an office with an adjustable-height desk, or as an extra bedroom with a storage loft bed (everyone needs extra storage).  You might also choose to use this as a lounge area with a covered mattress (no frame, no bedsprings) and throw pillows with geometric patterns.

Inside the two car garage, you will want to use cabinets for storage of your power tools or garden tools. The garage is on the left side of the house and leads you directly into the laundry room, where there is room for that sleek washer and dryer, as well as for your laundry supplies. Stepping forward, you enter the foyer with a 9 ft ceiling. To the left is a large open area, beginning with the great room. Here you will find a masonry fire place (typically constructed of brick, cement blocks or natural stone) on the right side of the room; add a mantel and a large framed black and white picture for that just-right look. Vertical storage along the walls will allow you to showcase your Chihuly glass or your graphic art for a pop of color.

The great room is open above, lending to the uncluttered feeling with a modern home. Using minimalist practices, you will want to focus on furniture that contributes to this spacious, bright room. A large throw rug, sofas with neutral colors, and vertical lighting will enhance the room. There are no walls to separate the great room from dining and the kitchen. The large kitchen island contains a double sink with room for seating, a space for your dishwasher and room for a below-the-counter microwave. The pantry (with room for those spices from Penzeys), refrigerator and range/stovetop all abut the interior garage wall. The formal dining room is nestled in the left corner of this wonderful open space, with the dining table and chairs you choose to complement the angular nature of the modern home. Windows on the back and left walls contribute to the airiness of the dining room.

Walking through the doors from the great room you enter the large covered porch; you will be able to imagine multiple uses for this space. A Big Green Egg, with its accompanying Acacia hardwood table, and an outdoor television and chairs that beg you to relax can all find a home here. An in-ground fire pit nearby, a project for the DIYer, will take the chill off of late fall evenings. Stretch your imagination, just a little bit, and envision a lap pool just steps away (with hydromassage for aching muscles after those intense workouts) from the covered porch.

Both bedroom suites are located on the right side of the home. The master suite has large sloping windows facing the front and clerestory windows on the right side (clerestory- windows that let light in but are above eye height, maintaining privacy). There are his and her closets, neatly organized when you use Closet Maid. The master bath includes his and her sinks and a tub-shower. There is room for that lighted mirror for her and a long wall mirror you both can use for a quick reflection before work. The second bedroom suite, with two horizontal windows, has a single sink, space for your bath linens and a tub-shower, also. This bedroom includes a single closet and is adjacent to a separate linen closet where you can store those extra pillows, blankets and towels for guests.

Sloping ceilings, large horizontal windows and a great room that merges with formal and informal dining are all key elements of a modern home. This one encompasses all, and it could be your next home!