Hall House

What were the circumstances of receiving the commission for this project?

Relocating from the political culture of Washington, DC to the remote city of Duluth, MN, the owners purchased a house constructed in the 1880s that is next to our home and office. They liked the design of our complex of houses.

Can you describe your design process for the building?

It was an extension of the logic & vocabulary of our existing complex. With the relative difficulty of constructing on ledge rock, effort was given to utilize several existing elements such as foundations, retaining walls and site stairs (all stained white) and to construct simple masonry piers for the addition.

By insulating, the basement was transformed to make it an effective occupied space. The new main floor opens onto multiple outdoor spaces that provide a variety of opportunities for the owners to enjoy the light and the beautiful views of Lake Superior. In aggregate the house appears a contradiction; both rooted in stone and floating beyond its past footprint towards the lake.

How does the building compare to other projects in your office, be it the same or other building types?

It is an extension of our complex of houses, but we see this vocabulary as a specific logic, not a style. Our work has been about interpreting what the architecture of this region should be, and it has proven to be an expandable concept. 

The goal of this new dwelling was to have it serve all the modernist values of openness, light, economy, sustainability, connection to the land, yet enhance the natural qualities of the site. Whereas the former immigrants came and adapted to their new culture carrying with them their own instincts, the Hall House represents the client’s modern thought layered over and respecting the ruins of the past.

How does the building relate to contemporary architectural trends, be it sustainability, technology, etc.?

It is sustainable in its maintenance-free material selection (Richlite panels) as well as in insisting for maximum passive attainability. 

How would you describe the architecture of Minnesota and how does the building relate to it?

In our climate it's about siting the building towards the sun, reducing the telescoping of cold transmission in materials, and selecting durable, maintenance-free materials. Another consideration is being respectful of the regional culture and it's connection to the land, and to promote the ease of access to multiple exterior spaces from the interior living areas.

Email interview conducted by John Hill