FPA were approached to complete the modernisation of a large terrace townhouse in Pimlico that the clients had partially refurbished and extended using traditional idioms. The traditional Georgian cellular layout of the property has inspired the blueprint of the refurbishment. The extensive use of a streamlined contemporary vocabulary is chosen over a faux vernacular. FPA have approached the design as a series of self-contained spaces, each with bespoke features functional to the specific use of each room. They are conceived as stand-alone pieces that use a contemporary reinterpretation of the orthodox architectural lexicon and that work with the building, rather than against it. The use of elementary geometries is complemented by precious materials and finishes that contribute to an overall feeling of understated luxury. Photo by Lisa Castagner

Linear shower drains give a shower a sleek look. Bob Gockeler

Dramatic mosaic tile in this shower makes the shower the focal point of this bathroom. Complete with polished chrome fixtures and a hand held shower. Bob Gockeler

Vance Fox This bathroom was designed for the efficient sharing by two teenage boys. They each have their own vanity and the shower is a separate room providing privacy.

Powder bath

We love it when a home becomes a family compound with wonderful history. That is exactly what this home on Mullet Lake is. The original cottage was built by our client’s father and enjoyed by the family for years. It finally came to the point that there was simply not enough room and it lacked some of the efficiencies and luxuries enjoyed in permanent residences. The cottage is utilized by several families and space was needed to allow for summer and holiday enjoyment. The focus was on creating additional space on the second level, increasing views of the lake, moving interior spaces and the need to increase the ceiling heights on the main level. All these changes led for the need to start over or at least keep what we could and add to it. The home had an excellent foundation, in more ways than one, so we started from there. It was important to our client to create a northern Michigan cottage using low maintenance exterior finishes. The interior look and feel moved to more timber beam with pine paneling to keep the warmth and appeal of our area. The home features 2 master suites, one on the main level and one on the 2nd level with a balcony. There are 4 additional bedrooms with one also serving as an office. The bunkroom provides plenty of sleeping space for the grandchildren. The great room has vaulted ceilings, plenty of seating and a stone fireplace with vast windows toward the lake. The kitchen and dining are open to each other and enjoy the view. The beach entry provides access to storage, the 3/4 bath, and laundry. The sunroom off the dining area is a great extension of the home with 180 degrees of view. This allows a wonderful morning escape to enjoy your coffee. The covered timber entry porch provides a direct view of the lake upon entering the home. The garage also features a timber bracketed shed roof system which adds wonderful detail to garage doors. The home’s footprint was extended in a few areas to allow for the interior spaces to work with the needs of the family. Plenty of living spaces for all to enjoy as well as bedrooms to rest their heads after a busy day on the lake. This will be enjoyed by generations to come.

Candy

New contemporary home in the Blue Ridge neighborhood of Seattle. Mohler + Ghillino Architects photo: Ben Benschneider

Mark Adams

Dramatic mosaic tile in this shower makes the shower the focal point of this bathroom. Complete with polished chrome fixtures and a hand held shower. Bob Gockeler