Introducing the Isaacson Residence, a timeless fusion of Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian concept of organic architecture from the 1930s and 1940s, seamlessly reimagined for the 21st century in Door County, Wisconsin. This modest 2,400 square foot home is a testament to the artful integration of modernity with the principles of Usonian design.
True to Wright's vision, the Isaacson Residence forgoes a basement, embracing a slab-on-grade floor in Cherokee red with radiant heating underneath. Flat roofs, punctuated by clerestory windows, replace the conventional attic, ushering in an abundance of natural daylight and fostering a connection with the surrounding landscape.
At the heart of the home lies a central brick core, anchoring the living room and the entire dwelling with a true masonry wood-burning fireplace. This core seamlessly integrates a built-in Argentine grill in the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting focal point. The exterior, adorned with horizontal Cyprus siding, reflects the natural beauty of the surroundings, extending seamlessly to the interior spaces.
Remaining true to the Usonian regard for authenticity of natural materials, the Isaacson Residence seamlessly integrates white Oak for windows and doors, a departure from today's typical fiberglass or aluminum. This choice not only preserves the essence of Usonian design but also enhances the tactile quality and aesthetic charm of the home.
In parallel, the residence embraces contemporary energy efficiency through SIP (structurally insulated panels) technology. These panels, utilized in the construction, contribute to a prefabricated, energy-efficient structure that aligns with the sustainable principles inherent in the Usonian concept. Insulated glass windows further enhance the thermal performance, ensuring a comfortable and environmentally conscious living space.
Open, flowing interior spaces unfold in an organic rhythm, concealing and revealing space as one progresses through the home—an experience akin to a harmonious walk in nature. Natural materials, central to the home's authenticity, evoke a tactile quality that enriches the living experience.
The horizontality of the residence is accentuated by the roof extending westward, sheltering a carport, one-car garage, and a private office. Generous exterior patios seamlessly extend the living spaces outdoors, inviting residents to immerse themselves in the expansive property and embrace the serenity of Door County. The Isaacson Residence stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of Usonian design, thoughtfully reinterpreted for contemporary living.