Project Data:

Completion Date:     4/20/2024

Square Footage:      2560

Building Use:           Single-family residential

Project Description:

The house is in a residential area adjacent to Wallace Lake located within the Cleveland Metroparks. In the 1830’s thriving sandstone quarries developed and became Berea’s lifeblood. Wallace Lake was originally part of a large sandstone quarry, which by the 1930’s was abandoned and filled with water.

The house was designed by local architect Carl Droppers and was constructed in 1965. Droppers, who practiced in Cleveland and taught architecture at Western Reserve University, displays innovation and forward thinking regarding architecture and engineering of the house. The structural engineer, Richard M. Gensert, is noted for his brilliant contributions to architecture in Ohio including Blossom Music Center, KSU Art School, Akron University Performing Arts Hall, etc.

The house is an excellent example of the International Style of Modern Architecture, constructed of steel and glass. Its structural system is based on a 4’ grid, consistent throughout both levels and the exterior perimeter of the house. The second floor is supported by two individual Vierendeel Trusses: the street-facing elevation and the lake-facing elevation. The trusses are clearly expressed and are advantageous where necessary to keep unobstructed openings between the vertical posts. The great horizontals, over twice as wide as the verticals, pick up the load and balance that load against the twelve-foot cantilevers at either end of the structure.

Deferred maintenance had occurred. Preservation efforts were guided by drawings and specifications created by the original architect. The original drawings are in pristine condition and many character-defining features of the property remained intact yet were in need of repair.

Repairs and rehabilitation include sitework, exterior and interior renovations. The damaged perimeter concrete has been replaced with 4’x4’ Berea sandstone slabs. The sandstone grid flows throughout the lower level of the house, replacing 12”x12” ceramic tile flooring. A sandstone patio has been installed consistent with the original grid. On the second floor, a sandstone hearth has been installed at the new fireplace created within a cavity of walls in an oversized bedroom closet. Damaged original Philippine mahogany panels were adjusted to accommodate the fireplace. New wood plank flooring has replaced the damaged carpet. 26 glass panels that were damaged have been replaced, with new hardwood stops installed, custom milled to the original details. Original kitchen cabinets have been removed, repaired, and reinstalled with new Formica counters matching the original damaged Formica. Original appliances and hardware have been repaired. All exterior features have been repaired or replaced in-kind. Original doors, both interior and exterior are extant.

The original design of the home considered sustainable aspects. Dual-paned windows were installed in 1965. Replacement windows are dual-paned and energy efficient. Heating and cooling ducts are integrated between the two levels and air is efficiently distributed along the interior perimeter of the house. New energy efficient equipment has been installed. New electrical panels and circuits have been installed. Integral insulation is embedded in the roof. The lower level is protected by deep overhangs and deciduous trees shade in the summer and allow natural light within the house during colder months.

Design for Integration, Design for Well-being, Design for Resources 

Design for Integration: connection to place
A dialogue with the context of nature is undeniable within the space. The project's architectural expression proposes a dialogue with the site and it's surroundings. Views are embraced, and as the exterior place changes the interior space responds. The seasons are celebrated within the space. An awareness of place is always present.

Design for Well-being: mental and physical
The timeless quality of the design embraces well-being. As a shelter within nature, its beauty and performance has withstood the test of time. Biophilic design (prior to the term's popularity) is evident in its setting, placement on the site, and design elements. Operable vents integrated into the steel columns allow fresh air to circulate on the upper level, thus energizing the smell and sounds of nature. The glass walls allow nature to become its wallpaper, a magnificent sight which changes along with nature's moods. The various textures natural to the materials of wood and sandstone appeal to touch. The home embraces a peaceful quality and tranquility for its occupants. Simply expressed, it feels good.

Design for Resources: permanence and protection
The project utilizes materials which demonstrate permanence and utilizes materials designed for longevity. Structural steel, concrete, and glass remain intact after nearly 60 years of life. Restoring existing resources sustains the environment, in essence recycling our resources. This project has recently been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, thus protecting this prime example of the International Style of Modernism as an historic resource.

Completion Date:     4/20/2024

Square Footage:      2560

Building Use:           Single-family residential

Location:                 Berea, Ohio

Susan Secoy Jensen, AIA

Secoy Architects, Inc.

Daniel Jensen and Susan Secoy Jensen

NA

Daniel Bier, PLA, ASLA, Landscape Architect

Wood Images, Mike ONeal, Todd Shaw

Peacock Floors, Jason Peacock

Geiger Flooring, Jeff Geiger

Wearsch Painting, Russ Wearsch

Garrett Wehan, assistant

James Haefner Photography