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Architectural Harmony in a New Family Home
During a recent tour, architect Adam Jordan expressed his admiration for the elaborate brickwork of buildings constructed by Eliel Saarinen at Cranbrook. Jordan highlighted how the facilities were artfully integrated into a landscape of courtyards. Drawing inspiration from this architectural heritage, he designed a three-bedroom home comprising interconnected pavilions, each designated for specific purposes. This layout allows the structures to adapt to the natural slope of the property, creating inviting outdoor spaces protected from the elements.
The Eliel Saarinen-designed buildings at Cranbrook Schools deeply influenced Jordan’s approach to designing a new residence nearby. The luminous Dining Hall played a pivotal role in shaping the dining area of the home. Using this inspiration, Jordan’s wife and interior design partner, Jordan Jordan, transformed elements from the cafeteria, including its elegant lighting and signature seating, into a stunning 12-light chandelier sourced from Danke Galerie and vintage Dialogo dining chairs.
While Saarinen sought inspiration from the Arts and Crafts movement, Jordan and the homeowners envisioned the structure resembling natural outcroppings, designed to blend seamlessly into the surroundings and remain out of sight from nearby golf courses. The decision to use only brick and glass on the exterior, devoid of any embellishments, was crucial. A significant effort was made to find the perfect brick that would harmonize with the existing mature red oaks. This quest led to the selection of sand-textured bricks from Glen-Gery, which were painstakingly installed by a local craftsman over a period of two and a half years.
Geoff, one of the homeowners, remarked that the house occasionally becomes nearly invisible amidst its surroundings. He noted, “If some perceive the house as rigid due to its exterior form, they are often surprised to discover the inviting nature of the interior.” He and his wife Heather attribute this warmth to Jordan’s skillful use of natural light and his extensive incorporation of white oak and Glen-Gery bricks in the interiors. Jordan highlighted the meticulous detailing of wood and stone surfaces inside, designed to echo the exterior brickwork, forging a deeper connection between architecture and the natural environment.
In the common areas, Jordan designed double-height spaces that allow for the display of a sculpture by Harry Bertoia, one of six collected by the couple thus far. The warmth of the living room is enhanced by a low-profile Peanut B. sofa from Bonaldo, paired with custom-made side and coffee tables. This arrangement is featured on a bespoke rug from Loloi’s vintage collection.
Highlighting the collaborative spirit behind the design, Adam Jordan acknowledged the vital contributions of his wife, Jordan Jordan, in crafting the welcoming atmosphere of the rooms. She emphasized their shared vision, saying, “We all agreed that the home should feature cozy natural textures, with green as the primary accent color.” Throughout the space, an eclectic mix of vintage pieces from designers like Pierre Jeanneret, Isamu Noguchi, and Carlo Scarpa is thoughtfully combined with contemporary designs, creating minimalist vignettes that often draw attention back to the surrounding landscape.
Both homeowners expressed their contentment with the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. Heather likened her experience in the home to that of residing in an Aman resort, as the sunlight follows her throughout her daily routine. Geoff voiced his appreciation for Jordan’s foresight in advocating for a patio and terrace that they initially underestimated in terms of enjoyment, stating, “When you find someone with even half the talent of Adam, it’s easy to place your trust in them.”
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www.architecturaldigest.com