Size: 10,000 sq. ft.

Program: Renovation of a 1923 Tudor style home in a Boston Metropolitan suburb. The owners selected the property for its proximity to the city, but were not impressed with the existing traditional home which was divided into dark, isolated rooms. The house was completely redesigned from the inside out to create a place for gracious living. By guiding the client through 3D computer models, BDA's design team provided a level of service uncommon for even a high-end residential project.

Specific requirements:

- Open living space connected visually to landscape

- Light-filled rooms that maintain privacy from neighbors

- Ability to entertain guests comfortably

- Five separate bedroom suites for guests and children

- Roof deck with sweeping views of the landscape and city beyond

- Extensive landscaping to level steep backyard

- Outdoor pool and cabana area

The design concept came out of a client discussion that focused on what it might be like to experience fractal geometry in three-dimensions. The clients were not interested in taking an orthogonal approach to designing space. Instead, they wanted to create an environment of layered planes, rich in detail. Walls do not simply divide rooms, but are articulated to hide and reveal ever-changing moments of light and airiness, creating a textural experience of being carried from one space to another.

In many extensive renovations, the architect negates "the old", replacing it with "the new". In this project, old and new elements are interlocked, to acknowledge both and create an unexpected composition. The main stair is the interior transition between new and old structures. Constructed as a fractal display of steel, wood, and glass, it anchors the five levels of living space which float above the entry hall.

Due to the scope, scale and evocative use of state-of -the-art systems, the design and construction process involved as much careful planning and attention to detail as a medium-sized office complex. This "smart house" allows the owner to manage nearly all systems through inconspicuous, networked computers. These include security, fire suppression, lighting, sound, and video systems, as well as control of 39 heating zones, and an innovative gas absorption air-conditioning system. Energy efficiency, long-term ease of maintenance, and exceptional contemporary livability characterizes this design. `