Architect Joshua Hissong’s journey with this project was a personal and professional one that intertwines his life with the evolving narrative of the house.
As the owner and the architect (HDG Architecture), his vision for the home was both an intimate reflection of his needs and a broader statement of his design philosophy.
The excitement for Hissong begins at the very beginning of a project, where the story of the client’s life -his own, in this case- inspires the blueprint. Fort his project, the engagement with the space was doubly insightful, being both the listener and the storyteller.
The house, designed in 1948 by Warren Hylmann, required a transformation that would respect its history while making it suitable for a contemporary lifestyle with a child.
Hissong’s mission was clear: to create a space that felt timeless yet robust, employing clean and simple aesthetics with materials that echoed the mid-century era.
The design strategy was minimalist, ensuring that nothing was added or altered without purpose, staying true to the home’s original spirit.
The resultant design showcases a remarkable flow, a key emerging trend in residential architecture that Hissong believes will shape the future.
This flow is evident in the fluidity between the home’s interior and exterior spaces, achieved through large glass expanses and thoughtful landscaping. These areas provide a visual and functional expansion of the living space, illustrating the design principle of extending the indoors outward.
Material choices were made with an eye for both authenticity and durability.
Commercial-grade flooring and quartz surfaces were selected to withstand the wear and tear of daily life with a young child. The warmth of wood accents and the strategic use of white paint on the ceiling beams enhance the sense of space, making it bright and inviting.
For Hissong, the question of how to honor the home’s historical context while revitalizing it for modern use was paramount.
The design elements, such as the 9-foot overhangs, clerestory windows, and the original cedar siding -now refreshed- pay homage to the midcentury aesthetic.
Yet, the house is unmistakably ready for the present, equipped to host the dynamism of today’s living.
This home is a testament to the belief that a home can be both a personal refuge and an example of architectural excellence.
Through Hissong’s eyes, the house reflects a blend of his professional acumen and the narrative of his life, a space where memories have been preserved and new ones are waiting to be created.
