In the tranquil setting of Cornwall, Vermont, Elizabeth Herrmann Architecture + Design has created an architectural marvel that skillfully integrates with its natural surroundings. The residence, enveloped in blackened Japanese cedar, emerges quietly from a dense stand of trees, aiming to mimic the aesthetic of bark. This unique cladding, known as yakisugi or shou sugi ban, not only enhances durability but also offers a striking visual appeal.
The home caters to a couple who moved from Boston with their dog, Milo. Nestled on a lush hillside, it benefits from the verdant orchards and woodlands around, with views reaching as far as the Adirondack Mountains. The design features irregular, offset forms, orchestrated to gracefully blend into the forested terrain.
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Innovative Cladding and Thoughtful Design
The team sourced the charred cedar cladding from Nakamoto Forestry, a company established in 1959 in Japan. They used the gendai variation, which highlights the wood’s natural grain beneath its carbonized exterior. This technique aligns with the homeowners’ vision of a low-maintenance and high-performance façade.
This project aligns with creative design esthetics seen in floating wooden structures for art exhibitions, inspiring ideas for blending architecture with nature.
Contrasting the dark exterior, the home’s interior bursts with natural light and space, described as “cathedral-like” by the architects. It features earthy finishes and lofted ceilings, harmonized with wood acoustical treatments, creating both expansive and intimate spaces suitable for gatherings or remote work.
Extending the Aesthetic: Sauna and Shed
To ensure continuity across the property, a detached sauna and garden shed share the same yakisugi cladding, establishing a unified architectural theme. This careful attention to detail ensures the entire estate resonates with the natural beauty around it.
Photography by Ryan Bent richly captures the essence of this project, inviting viewers into its serene and thoughtfully designed spaces. This remarkable house by Elizabeth Herrmann Architecture + Design exemplifies how modern residences can complement and preserve the tranquility of their natural settings while offering high functionality.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary material used for the house cladding?
The primary material used for the house cladding is blackened Japanese cedar, also known as yakisugi or shou sugi ban.
Where is the charred cedar cladding sourced from?
The charred cedar cladding is sourced from Nakamoto Forestry, a company established in 1959 in Japan.
How does the interior of the house contrast with the exterior?
The interior of the house is filled with natural light and space, described as ‘cathedral-like’ by the architects, with earthy finishes, lofted ceilings, and wood acoustical treatments.