HOUSE ON A POND

The house follows traditions within the late English Domestic Revival Period. It blends both classical forms ~ a strong axial entrance processional terminating in a figural parking court flanked by a historically appointed Coach House / Garage ~ and the adventuresome Picturesque Style ~ an asymmetrical disposition of forms and variety of textures to provide a more organic relationship with an adjacent existing landmarked pond by the late famed landscape architect Jens Jensen.

The rules of simplicity and directness, of truth of materials, and respect of the human scale of domestic architecture allow it to fit seamlessly with its surrounding historic residential vernacular.

The large Palladian-style Entry door leads visitors to a handsomely appointed Entry Gallery with its perspectival views of the formal staircase bathed  in light, the formal Living Room beyond appointed in a soft yet elegant décor, and the formal Dining Room directly ahead with views out to the rear lawn.

The use of simple, elegant materials and finishes are skillfully detailed such as custom millwork and cabinetry, staircase work, crown molding and other trim work, formed ceilings, and the like.

  • Location: Glencoe, IL

  • Design: 2005-2006

  • Construction: 2007-2008

  • Design Principal: Thomas L Shafer AIA

  • Project Architect: Scott Crowe AIA

  • Project Team: Jenny Snider, Dan Tornheim, Sarah L Sherry

  • General Contractor: H/S Builders LLC

  • Structural Engineer: Enspect, Inc.

  • Mechanical Engineer: Emcor Midwest Midwesco

  • Landscape Architect: Craig Bergman Landscape Design

  • Civil Engineer: Norman J Toberman Associates

  • Geo-technical Engineer: Ground Engineering Consultants, Inc.

  • Photography: Hedrich Blessing Photographers