How Context Informs Design (via House Beautiful)
So much goes into the design of a home and as you know, and the Bees have a thing for charming old properties. They speak and beckon to us! Are you one of those souls who brakes for charming old homes? There is nothing better than slowly cruising New England’s charming towns; especially this time of year. My husband panics when he sees a for sale sign on an antique property, particularly one that includes a barn. He knows me well, and perhaps someday I will get my wish. Can’t you just picture the Bees studio in a charming old barn? Does anyone else have the desire to live and work in a barn?! I would be so delighted to create from this perch; check out the design space that our friends at Avenue C occupy, on the grounds of Eastleigh Farm in Framingham. When you stop by for a visit you can get your fix of all things New England, without buying the farm!
Gil Schafer’s article; “How Context Informs a Home’s Design” (via House Beautiful) really strikes a chord with the Bees! Schafer states; “The best homes, beneath their furnishings and paint colors and finishes, have an undeniable sense of place.” We agree wholeheartedly! As Schafer states, “every project begins with a deep exploration of its history, context, and purpose.” Like the Bees, Schafer listens to what the property is telling him and he really gets to know his clients; “to understand how they like to live-if there are kids in the house or they're empty nesters, whether they’re formal or they’re informal.” All of these things help Schafer to create homes that suit their inhabitants and their surroundings. To do so, he considers three main types of context, whether it be new construction or renovation. His three primary points of context are; site context, historical context, and memory. Read the full article here and check out a sampling of the stunning work his firm has created.
BKID PROJECTS THAT EXEMPLIFY A SENSE OF PLACE
Two of our favorite projects included extensive renovations to antique properties: one on the Cape, and the other a local in-town favorite. Brian Gassett, a Hopkinton builder, did an amazing job of salvaging and reusing the existing architectural elements, hence retaining all of the charm and character of this antique farmhouse! See additional photos below.
Local Farmhouse renovation…
George Blakely and team did an amazing renovation on this charming old Captain’s home, located on the Cape, take a tour below!
I would be perfectly content to live out my days in either of these charming abodes. What does your dream home look like? Paint us a picture and let us help you create it!