Project's Summary

Carrboro House: A Modern, Green, and Affordable Home Designed for Aging

CUBE design + research, a renowned architectural studio, was approached by a client with a vision for their dream home – a modern, green, affordable, and age-friendly living space. Nestled on a picturesque half-acre lot in Carrboro, the property provided the perfect canvas for the architects to bring this vision to life.

To ensure accessibility, CUBE design + research responded with a design that incorporated single-level living and universal design principles. This approach guarantees that the home can easily accommodate the client's present needs while also catering to future aging requirements. By integrating adaptable amenities, the architects have ensured that the home remains functional and convenient as the client's needs evolve over time.

In addition to prioritizing accessibility, the architects also aimed to control costs without compromising on quality. They achieved this by keeping the overall plan compact and simplifying intricate details. This prudent decision allows the client to enjoy a beautiful and functional home without breaking the bank.

One of the standout features of the Carrboro House is the ingenious way in which it interacts with its surroundings. The house's form expertly shifts to create multiple yards, ensuring a seamless blend between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Furthermore, the architects have skillfully used a vertical zinc wall, inspired by the texture of tree bark, to visually anchor the house. This striking element not only serves as the entry point but also acts as a partition, effectively separating private and public areas within the home.

A key aspect of the design is the emphasis on connecting the residents with the natural environment. Regardless of their location within the house, whether it be down the hall, through a doorway, or across the room, inhabitants are always treated to a captivating view of the outdoors or bask in the warm glow of natural daylight. This intentional design choice ensures a constant connection between the interior and exterior, promoting a sense of harmony and tranquility throughout the day.

In conclusion, CUBE design + research has created a remarkable home in Carrboro that ticks all the boxes – modern, green, affordable, and designed for aging. By incorporating universal design principles, adapting amenities for future needs, and skillfully integrating the house with its surroundings, the architects have crafted an exceptional living space. The Carrboro House stands as a testament to the studio's commitment to innovative design and thoughtful architecture.

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