Colleen Healey Architecture, alongside Lynley Oglvie Landscape Design, has renovated a 1917 American Four Square home in Washington, DC now called Hidden Meadow near the National Cathedral. The 7,400-square-foot residence was reimagined with eight bedrooms, two offices, and a garage with an in-law suite, separated from the main home by a meadow. A lightweight kitchen and dining extension was added to the north end, while original sleeping porches were preserved and supported on new steel columns.
Inside, a sculpted plaster ceiling—formed using foam molds—wraps tight corners and conceals the floor structure above. Mirrors placed above the ceiling and below skylights reflect natural light and soften boundaries between architecture and atmosphere. Additional mirrors behind kitchen cabinets blend the interior with garden views. Curved plaster, restored woodwork, and warm materials balance minimalism with texture and historic charm, achieving the studio’s goal of creating a functional, serene, and light-filled modern sanctuary rooted in character.
Image Credit: Jennifer Hughes
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Modern Heritage Design
- A fusion of modern minimalism with historical architecture elements seeks to preserve traditional charm while providing contemporary functionality and aesthetics.
- Nature-infused Interiors
- Incorporating natural light and garden views into interior designs, often through the use of reflective surfaces, harmonizes outdoor and indoor living spaces.
- Multi-functional Residences
- Transforming classic homes into multi-purpose living spaces with specialized areas like in-law suites represents a shift towards versatile residential architecture.
Where This Applies
- Architectural Renovation
- The demand for blending historic preservation with modern architecture opens opportunities in creating bespoke, revitalized living spaces.
- Sustainable Interior Design
- Innovative use of materials and design elements that reduce energy usage while enhancing aesthetic appeal is gaining traction in the residential sector.
- Landscape Architecture
- A growing focus on integrating natural landscapes with residential properties is driving evolutions in landscape design expertise and applications.
