Fullam Residence: Blending Architectural Genius and Sustainability

The Fullam Residence, originally envisioned by renowned architect Paul Rudolph in the late 1950s, underwent some modifications when it was finally constructed in 1958/59. While two out of the three bays from the original sketch were incorporated into the design, the intention was to allow for future expansion on either side while maintaining the original design objective. In 2014, Wolstenholme Associates, LLC, our architecture firm, was tasked with creating an addition to the residence that would pay homage to Rudolph's original vision while seamlessly blending with the existing structure.

Throughout the construction process, we encountered numerous challenges. As the original residence relied heavily on the concept of massing, it was essential to ensure that the stone masonry and large glass window expanses matched flawlessly. The new stone had to be an exact match in terms of size, color, and even pattern replication. Working closely with the builder, our firm meticulously executed these details, allowing the new Pennsylvania fieldstone to seamlessly blend with the existing structure, giving the impression that it all came from the same lot.

Atop the new flanking stone wall, an undulating roof extends from the existing roof, creating a striking visual effect where it appears to float above the trapezoidal windows. This unique roof configuration, part of Rudolph's original design, allows the winter sun to penetrate the space, passively heating the massive stone walls, while also providing shade from the intense summer sun. To maintain the integrity of the original design, a custom window company specializing in passive solar techniques was enlisted to create triple pane windows that matched the existing ones. Furthermore, all lighting in the house was converted to LED while staying true to the style of the original light fixtures. Spray foam insulation was also utilized in the new construction to maximize energy efficiency.

In the end, our historically sensitive addition to the Fullam Residence, designed by one of America's most iconic modern architects, was completed while preserving the original design integrity. The careful attention to detail paid off, as the new addition seamlessly merges with the existing structure. Not only does it honor Paul Rudolph's original vision, but it also incorporates modern advancements in energy efficiency, making the structure exceptionally sustainable. The Fullam Residence stands as a testament to the successful collaboration between past and present, showcasing the timeless beauty and innovation of Rudolph's architectural genius.

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