Page 19 - ArchDC_Spring 2020

Entry façade.

House with steps down to deck.

700 square feet of enclosed space, but features ample As you explore the cabin, she added, “other
expanses of glass and a lot of outdoor decking for interesting views reveal themselves. From the master
relaxing, taking in the view, and knocking back a few bedroom, you can spy local wildlife traversing the
simple but satisfying cocktails. small meadow to the south, and from the small kitchen
A favorite aspect of the design for Schmickel and window you can look west to see the Great North
her husband “is how it presents the views for you to Mountain of the Appalachian range. Even the outdoor
discover and enjoy,” she said. “As you rise up the hill shower has a stunning view of the valley.”
from the main road, the view is obstructed by the grade Schmickel is a principal at cox graae + spack
and the house itself, and the front door is frosted glass. architects (cg+s), a firm that mainly designs schools and
The view then reveals itself after you enter. The house other civic and institutional buildings, including some
has floor-to-ceiling windows along the wall facing the that have been covered in these pages. “I’ve done a few
valley. This creates a wonderful sensation as you step residential projects in my 33-year career, but most of our
through the house toward the gin and tonic deck, with work at cg+s work is institutional,” she said. “I’ve worked
the beautiful river and lush valley stretched out before on many schools, recreation centers, churches, etc. This
you to the east.” project was different, since it was for my husband and me.”

DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH 17