As the project progressed, the owners increasingly relied on Paolo Volpis Architects for guidance, coordination, and design expertise. What began as a limited advisory role soon evolved into a broader responsibility, with our firm becoming a principal design resource throughout the design-build process.
One of the owners’ initial concerns was the residence’s main entrance, which appeared visually unbalanced and lacked a clear architectural presence. Through a detailed review of the plans, we identified several additional design and coordination issues, including conflicting door swings and other functional concerns that required resolution before construction advanced further.
A particularly significant issue involved the relationship between the interior ceiling, mechanical plenum requirements, and exterior cantilevers. The original design envisioned a continuous ceiling extending from the interior spaces to the exterior overhangs; however, the required mechanical clearances had not been fully accounted for. This resulted in an excessively deep exterior fascia that appeared disproportionate to the overall architecture.
To help the owners better understand the scale and visual impact of the proposed condition, we recommended that the general contractor construct a full-scale mock-up and position it above the framed roof. This exercise confirmed the owners’ concerns and provided a clear basis for redesigning the exterior detailing.
The owners were also concerned that the residence might appear too similar to other contemporary homes in the surrounding neighborhood. Following an extensive design process, one of the most notable exterior modifications was the introduction of a more refined and neutral fascia design. Warm, textured stone was selected in place of the originally specified marble, creating a more timeless and welcoming material palette.
Strategically positioned wood fins were also incorporated into the design to filter natural light, enhance privacy, and introduce warmth to the exterior composition. These elements were intended to soften the architecture and create a more inviting residential character rather than a cold, museum-like atmosphere. Unfortunately, the wood fins were later removed from the construction scope as part of an extensive value-engineering process prompted by budget limitations.
Our involvement also extended to the design and visualization of the interior and outdoor spaces. Because the project team did not include a dedicated interior designer, many interior design decisions were being managed directly by the owners. We provided ongoing design guidance and produced hundreds of architectural renderings, including multiple variations for individual rooms and exterior areas. These visualizations allowed the owners to compare materials, layouts, furnishings, and design concepts with confidence, helping them navigate the decision-making process and bring the project to completion.
