The ranch-style residential building ‘Glass Spine’ in Western New York derives its project name from a continuous central narrow atrium space, which separates two main parts of the residence. To the North of this spine, which functions as main entrance, vestibule, and connective circulation, all the more technical and secondary spaces are placed, such as storage, the garage, mechanical and laundry closets, as well as a home office. Toward the South, all the primary living spaces are aligned along the open backyard, including the open living-dining-kitchen area, a ‘kids suite’ with separate common area, and the master suite with an airy art studio with large glazing to optimize natural lighting. Visually and practically, this building reads as two structures with the atrium creating a comfortable as well as pragmatic transition space with maximized day lighting. For the primary structure, Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF) are utilized in order to minimize heating and cooling needs while a solar array on the south roof is providing a large part of the essential power need. Further, a special focus was given to the simplicity of the exterior and low maintenance; for example, simple and durable metal shed roofs are sloping away from the central atrium with a low roof line and attractive yet maintenance-free open-chain downspouts.
Images below are a PREVIEW / DRAFT only!