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Situated amidst the serene slopes of the Allegheny Mountains in Lexington, the Shenandoah House, designed by SCHAUM/SHIEH and completed in 2023, stands as a testament to harmonious integration with its natural surroundings. Spanning 2,750 square feet, this residence and writer’s retreat epitomize a seamless blend of architectural ingenuity and reverence for the surrounding landscape.
Conceptualization and Inspiration
The genesis of the Shenandoah House traces back to a dinner gathering where the clients, a creative couple deeply rooted in the local landscape, shared their aspirations with the architects. Inspired by sketches unveiled by one of the clients—an anthropologist with a penchant for Athenian architecture—the design journey began. Drawing from the client’s vision of an airy plan that embraces the topography, SCHAUM/SHIEH embarked on crafting a home that echoes the contours of the hilltop site.
Spatial Organization
The layout of the Shenandoah House is characterized by a linear arrangement, seamlessly weaving through the undulating terrain. Three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and various living spaces unfold along a single axis, with rooms protruding into the hillside or opening up to panoramic vistas. This elongated plan not only maximizes views but also creates intimate pockets of outdoor spaces nestled between the rooms.
Material Palette and Design Elements
A gray metal roof, resembling the surrounding slopes, serves as the unifying element of the Shenandoah House, accentuating the natural contours of the landscape. The use of insulated stucco and Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) cladding blends durability with the aesthetic of seaside Greek architecture. Large windows at either end of the central corridor frame picturesque views of the forest and meadow, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Interior Details and Lighting
Inside, the architectural folds of the roof dictate the spatial organization and design details of each room. Lighting subtly emerges from ceiling slots and custom-designed quasi-furniture objects, preserving the seamless flow of the interiors. Local materials such as soapstone and bamboo infuse warmth and texture, while clerestory windows establish a visual connection with the treetops and skyline.
Conclusion
The Shenandoah House stands as a masterful synthesis of architecture and nature, where every design element pays homage to the surrounding landscape. Through thoughtful spatial planning, innovative material choices, and meticulous attention to detail, SCHAUM/SHIEH has created a sanctuary that seamlessly integrates with its natural environment, offering a tranquil haven for contemplation and creativity.
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