Ravine House: Meeting of Modern Design and the Embrace of Nature

Описание: Nestled in the picturesque suburban town of Highland Park, just a hop away from the bustling heart of Chicago, the Valley House stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between modern lifestyle and the natural world. This residence is a haven for a kindred couple - avid cyclists, nature enthusiasts, and artists - seeking a harmonious home that encapsulates their passions and way of life.

The essence of the Valley House lies within an enigmatic single rectangular volume, sensitively punctuated by the gentle separation of its northwest corner to give rise to a welcoming entry courtyard. This courtyard, a living canvas adorned with local stones, the graceful sway of birch trees, and artistically grouped plantings, embodies the delicate balance between human intervention and the untamed beauty of nature.

In a deliberate dance with nature, the main structure is veiled in a cloak of black vertical metal cladding. A vertical rain screen of American Black Locust lends texture and character to this outdoor sanctuary, showcasing the indigenous essence of the site. A single sinuous column of Black Locust stands sentinel at the entrance, its presence both functional and evocative, inviting touch and interaction.

The heart of the home is sculpted from rich American Walnut. As you traverse the continuous white oak floors, you're drawn to the expansive windows that frame nature's ever-changing artistry - the kaleidoscope of seasons, the play of light on snow, the kaleidoscopic dance of autumn leaves.

This is a home that embodies a story of sustainability, of caring for the land as much as for oneself. The couple's efforts extend beyond these walls - they diligently restore the ravine from invasive species, tending to it with the same love they give to their no-mow meadows. The maple trees on the site offer their sap, a result of laborious nights tending fires with locally sourced wood. And the firepit, a testament to the land's history, is built from the remnants of a former house that once graced this land.

Every element within the Valley House carries a piece of the couple's journey. From the thoughtfully designed walnut cabinets crafted by skillful hands to the cherished live-edge dining table carved from a tree on their farm in Galena, Illinois - each piece resonates with stories of love and connection. And as the sun sets on this tranquil retreat, it becomes evident that the Valley House is more than just a dwelling; it's a fabric woven with threads of the past, the present, and the commitment to caring for both the land and the bonds that tie us to it.

Project info:

Name: Ravine House
Location: Highland Park, Illinois
Architects: Wheeler Kearns Architects
Area: 4525 ft²
Year: 2017
Photographer: Tom Rossiter
Manufacturers: AutoDesk, Vibia, VELUX Group, Birchwood, Black Locust Wood BLLUSA, Hevi-Lite, Johns Manville, Kohler, Lucifer Lighting, Marvin, Metal box rib, Optic Arts, Quartz Colorquartz, Thermador