Brickyard
Chicago, IL
6,500 sf, 6 bed, 7.5 bath
A distinctive element is a perforated brick screen wall that adds a layer of privacy between the home and city street while allowing light to pass through. A custom brick, tapered on one side, creates beautiful shadows and a sense of movement on the facade as the sun moves across the sky. The result is a luxurious texture that transforms the material, surprising observers accustomed to perceiving brick as hard and structural. This innovation contrasts artfully with other materials, including glass and exposed steel, which evoke a modern industrial aesthetic.
The structure is scaled to be respectful of the neighborhood and employs materials that relate to Chicago’s urban history. The footprint is L-shaped, defining an open plan sanctuary in the heart of city and sheltering a yard designed for the enjoyment of the entire family.
Passive solar design improves energy efficiency while promoting a sense of wellbeing through a strong connection to nature. Sustainability measures include PV solar array with battery storage and a green roof.
Located in an urban neighborhood, Brickyard was designed in collaboration with clients passionate about contemporary architecture. Their vision was to build a sheltered home with a strong connection to nature while maintaining walkable access to the best of city living. The project brief included open plan living, integrated interior and exterior spaces, space for extended family, and a lounge with skyline views.
We designed this home for a couple passionate about architecture. They were relocating from Manhattan to their Midwestern roots and wanted a legacy home—a home they could grow old in and pass down to their children...read more
