Urban Eco-tecture (continued)
The penthouse addition was dictated in large measure by Fougeron’s desire to exploit solar energy. It sits to the north of the courtyard so as not to shade the sun. Fougeron angled the glasscovered eave of the east-facing windows to allow winter sunlight in while doubly filtering out sunlight in summer. The angles of the penthouse structure give the home its nickname: the Grasshopper.
The exterior of the rooftop addition is clad in Cor-ten steel. This natural material was chosen for its durability as well as its reactive nature with the environment: Cor-ten is not sealed against oxidation, so the outside layer of it changes color from black to various shades of dark orange. This natural process forms a protective coating over the unoxidized steel underneath the ferrous “crust.”
The penthouse provides access to the new roof deck, which is covered in ipé wood. Ipé is a highly durable fast-growth wood that is gaining in popularity, especially for decking, because it resists rot, decay, insects and mold without toxic chemical treatments. It’s naturally resistant to splintering and fire, and it’s harvested from naturally sustainable forests.
Great architecture, it has been said, begins with great clients, and Fougeron is clear in stating that Shelton and Shimer qualify. As in the best collaborations, Fougeron was able to meet her clients’ specific needs while exploring the fundamental tenets of her own design philosophy. And that may well be one of the reasons this home won an Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects.
Click here to view the resources for this article
Subscribe to ELLE DECOR magazine
MORE RENOVATION INSPIRATION ARTICLES
