Page 48 - Spring_2019

ArchDC Spring 2019.qxp_Spring 2019 2/20/19 5:17 PM Page 46

Kitchen.

One problematic aspect of Mid-Century Modern buildings is
their energy inefficiency. The aesthetic was often ahead of the
technology: Large areas of single-pane glazing, for example, not
only bleed heat or coolness, but also are notorious for air and
water infiltration problems. Very thin roof planes were also part of
the aesthetic, leaving little room for insulation. Another common
aesthetic preference was to expose both sides of a brick wall, interior
and exterior, causing another heat drain. In renovating this house,
Wiedemann “did what we could.” Most notably, all of the windows
and glass doors were replaced with modern, insulated glass replicas.
Insulation was added as possible. The basic layout of the original
forced-air system was maintained, but all the components were
replaced with new, higher-efficiency elements.
Master bath with bedroom at left.
With its waterfront setting and long, wide gable, the house
bears a striking resemblance to the famous William Low House of Tred Avon originally an homage of some sort, a reinterpretation of
1887, a seaside “cottage” in Rhode Island by the venerable architect the Low House into the Mid-Century vernacular? If so, the original
Charles McKim. In architectural history classes, practically all architect was very successful. But the original client and architect
architecture students encounter the Low House as a premier of the Eastern Shore house, it seems, have been lost to time. One
example of the “Shingle Style” of the late 19th century, with earthy can only state with certainty that Wiedemann Architects and their
materials, a sense of gravity keeping the house low to the earth, client have reclaimed the high aspirations and thoughtful execution
little ornament, and simplified massing. Was this house on the of the original 1958 house.

46 MID-CENTURY MAKEOVER