THE MODERN

A
FRAME
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN RAHN
INTRODUCTION BY CHAD RANDL
 T M A-F

Digital Edition 1.0

Text © 2018 Gibbs Smith Publisher

Introduction © 2018 Chad Randl

Photographs © 2018 Ben Rahn

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced by any means whatsoever without written
permission from the publisher, except brief portions quoted for purpose of review.

Gibbs Smith
P.O. Box 667
Layton, Utah 84041

Orders: 1.800.835.4993
www.gibbs-smith.com

ISBN: 978-1-4236-4764-5
When I started my architectural photography studio, I called it “A-Frame”
so we’d be first in the phone book. It’s great how things come full circle.

—Ben Rahn
The Modern A-Frame
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
FULL-TIME SIMPLICITY
KYST HUS
TRIANGLE HOUSE
POLAR STAR
A-FRAME REFRAME
CALM & COLLECTED
HERITAGE HOMES
A-FRAME LEGACY
SUMMER PLAYHOUSE
EAGLE ROCK
ARTISTS AT WORK
INSIEME HOUSE
ROOM TO GROW
LUX LODGE
OUR MAGIC A-FRAME
NOSTALGIC ESCAPES
STREAMLINED SERENITY
WHISTLER CABIN
A-FRAME IN BLOOM
FLOATING A-FRAME
MOUNTAINTOP MODERN
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
INTRODUCTION
Design ideas
ofadvocates, come
forces—thea resonanceand go. ey rise up
persistencewithof intheuential through
orthedetermineda combination
looking for good copy and alluring spirit of
images. age,en editors
they fall away,
almost imperceptibly
startlingly at rst, as the concept moves from
tocliché, thenewstatus
beingearly to conventional,
quo.
promoters As
lose an frombecomes
idea
interest
challenging
or even common
disown
the status
and
it.
quo
then
Only
after
new a period
generation, of time and
motivated forgetting
byit evokes might
admiration the idea
forit uptheand reemerge.
idea’s merits A
orreinterprets
nostalgia for
its the era
meaning that
through picks
contemporary priorities and
tastes.
 e
search triangular
for building
shelter, it was is one
also such
utilizedidea.as Born of
storehouse, a neolithic
stable, and
shrine.
precedents Mostly forgotten
survived tobase by the early twentieth
tracefortherecreation,
lineage ofthea new century, enough
revival.
Finding
one of thenew use
most as a
recognizable (and malleable) A-frame
building became
forms of
the
play. 1950s–70s, typifying
en triangular an era
design seemed of optimism,
topages abundance,
disappear—from and
thefrom
preferences
popular of tastemakers,
consciousness, if from
not from the
the of
landscape.magazines,
In recent
years,
the the reemergence
constructionandofcreative of the
entirely adaption A-frame
new examples has been
and more marked less
thefrom thatby
rehabilitation
postwar boom. of designs dating
It’s
many little wonder
disparate such an unassuming
pointsof ofexcavated
the globepostholesbuilding appeared
across thedemonstrate
span of the on so
millennia.
ancient e
presence angle
of structures assembled of opposing rows of
beams
that tilted
served to
as meet
both at
walls a point
and overhead
roof. Japanese and with a covering
tenchi-kongen
forms
Guinea setsetinto
on the ground,
platforms pole
above and
ground,thatch andhouses of
Scandinavian New
sadeltakshus
shape. Its “saddle
beams and roof houses”
covering were allmade
shared
with thiswhatever
triangular
material
todaub, was
woodorshingles. readily
Gableat hand,
ends from
were bamboo
enclosed to birch,
with from
wattle and sod
triangular plank, or brick.
building’s Vernacularofbuilders
combination structural appreciated
strength andthe
esymbolic
ciency,potency.
but they must have also liked its geometric purity and
ARange
remodeled
serves 1959
as A-frame
the full-timein the Sierra
residence Nevada
to a Mountain
family of four in
Olympic Valley, California.
ese
Taut same
and attributes
Rudolf appealed
Schindler who to designers
picked up the such
form as
in Bruno
the rst
decades
Southern of the twentieth
California century.
andproponent An Austrian
protégé ofofFrank émigré to
Lloydarchitecture.
Wright,
Schindler
During thewas a
1920s central
and 1930s he modern
designed a number of
triangular structures that demonstrated his interest
integrating form technology and contemporary materials. His in
Gisela
California,Bennati withCabin
its built
innovative on a
usehillside
of above
plywood, Lake
glazed Arrowhead,
gable
ends, and open loft
thousands that would follow. interior was a clear precursor to the
Inperiod
the aftermath
of of
unprecedented World War
economicII, the United
expansion States
that enjoyed
brought a
leisure
the time
population. and disposable
Second income
carsbuilt
andonsecond to ever larger
televisions portions of
werecarved
followed
ski resorts. by Asecond
playful homes
design vocabulary shorelines
seemed and newly
appropriate for
this new
extending recreation
Schindler’s environment
experimentation and architects responded,
with triangular forms.
MIT
examplearchitecture
cantileveredstudentover Henrik
the Bull
slopes developed
in Stowe, an in
Vermont; uential
Andrew
ofWorley Geller
a LongWong, nestled
Islandandbeach. a version
San like
Francisco driftwood
designers among
John the dunes
Campbell,
house kit consisting Terry
of allTong
the developed
materials an early
weekend triangular
carpenters
needed
and nails. to build their own including precut lumber, hardware,
e publication
Artsaudiences.
aslarger of
& Architecture these andversions
Sunset in in uential
introduced magazines
the trend to such
ever
companies and By
local the 1960s,
lumber yardsnational
were wood product
producing plan books
and
use prefabricated
and, because kits.
ofa steeply e term
the idea’spitched A-frame
popularity, came
came into widespread
to encompass
any
was structure
not limited with
to the United States roof.
as the e
formA-frame’s
again spread
reasserted
were built a global
fromlocal presence.
the Alps Postwar
to Argentina A-frame
and vacation
Australia, homes
as in the
past,
ends. utilizing materials to both practical and aesthetic
Partly
partly due
because to its association
its formcommercial with prosperity
was instantlyappeal. and
recognizable, the good
themotellife,
A-frame
also
ostrips had
ces,from considerable
pet stores, and gas stations appeared Triangular
along shopping
Whataburger coast to coast.
andoutlets. Fast
Der Wienerschnitzelfood chains such
developed asA-frame
motifs for their Prominent roofs
oodlights and painted bright red and orange served as illuminated by
enormous
others, billboards
luring cars o distinguishing
the road, and these
stickingestablishments
in the minds offrom
consumers.
spiritual To some,
evocation. the
Placesskyward reach
of worship, of the
including A-frame
Eero inwas a
Saarinen’s
Indiana, chapel
the Air at
Force Concordia
Academy eological
Cadet ChapelSeminary
in Colorado, and
others in South Korea, Norway, and elsewhere, utilized
triangular form, likening it to hands folded in prayer. the
Afeet1964andA-frame in northeast Portland stands
is a year and a half into an extensive interior remodel. at 3,000 square
en,
A-frame for more
became than two
a formula decades
non starting
grata. Poisoned in the mid-1970s,
byinterest
its ownand the
popularity,
cool factor. the A-frame
Arbiters of saw
taste a precipitous
considered it drop
tired in
and dated as
new
condos recreation
andreplacedtypologies
homes with and practices
conventional formsemerged. Resort
andintended
year-round
amenities
seasonal use. Perhaps quirky
therecabins
was and
nothing cottages
more damning for
to the
once–avant
reproduced garde
as Little credentials
a fastPeople of
food restaurant triangular
or ashousedesign than
a children’s to
toy be
(Fisher-Price’s
inincreasing
1974). thee 1970s energy A-frame
crisis dealt doll
a further was
blow,introduced
cost ofof climate cost of
controllingtravel to distant
A-framesceilings) vacation
that (withwere spots and
opennotoriously
interiors,the
lack insulation, and unventilated
di cult to keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Beginning
trickle in the
ofo renewed late 1990s, however,
interestbuilders.
in A-frame there
design. began a small
A fewbuilders
plans were
still
still on
building er for
from amateur
those plans or A
theirfew amateur
own. More substantially,were
bysurviving
the 2000s there
postwar was
A-framesa growing
speci interest in purchasing
cally upwithinthea current
intent toof rising
revitalize
appreciation them.for e
whatA-frame
had was
come swept
to be called “Midcentury
Modern,”
allof retailers a
things Charlestrend that had
andDesign likewise
Ray Eames–related increased the estimation
ande challenge
the appearance of
updating an such
old as
idea and Within
asserting Reach.
its contemporary of
relevance
drove other A-frame rehab projects.
Aappearance
building typology might de ned
seem an by its distinctive
unlikely candidate triangular
for
reinterpretation.
accommodated Yet
great from its
variety. earliest
To those history
looking the A-frame
closely, postwar
designs
angled drew attogether
walls, the same multiple
time interpretations
evoking the within their of
unpretentiousness
awere
vernacular hut
contemporary and the
and studied
traditional, purity
edgy of Modernism.
yet inviting. Some ey
designs featured dormers that cut through the roof plane on the
second or
glass-fronted rst oor; some
ground-level reoriented
dormer the
became structure
the so
primary that a
facade
and entrance.
theattening Others
verticalthebyform, played with
steeplyattenuating the roof
angling theit along pitch,
roof walls, emphasizing
or alternately
versions pushed together two or more the ground
triangular plane.
volumes Some
in a
cross-gable
gables). or T-shaped plan (one featured eight intersecting
Westgate
Japanese Paradise
A-frame in
with Trinidad,
a Japanese California,
garden, a iscustom
available1960sas a
vacation rental.
Variations
theeyA-frame, reveal designers
especially the grapplingofwith
shortage headroomliabilitiesandinnate
daylight.to
ey exhibit
demonstrate responsiveness
the designer’sto the needs
desire to of individual
inject their clients.
creative
energies
iconic and style intoand
recognizability thisitsform while retaining
appealingly clean the A-frame’sof
arrangement
line and
alluring plane.
challenge. e inherent
It’s why restrictions
A-frames have of the
been form
the present
subject ofan
studio
Virginia.exercises
As faculty in architecture
and practicing schools
designers like theknow, University
limitation—of
insolutions.
site, or budget, or materials—often stimulates creative
A-frame
appeal to renovation
a select remains
group a nicheinactivity.
interested design Postwar
and A-frames
design
history,
convention.to those ey seeking
will simplicity
remain or
unappealing a departure
to those from
who
remember
considered themoreformtacky mostly
than fortrendy,
its period
its of declinetowhen
connection it wasa
history
liability
unappealing rather tothan
those an asset.
who equateAnd they
square will no
footage doubt withremain
happiness.
usually for If these
the valuable disinterested
land upon parties
which buy
it an A-frame
sits. e A-frameit’s is
swiftly demolished
construction debris and hauled
replaced by o in a
somethingdumpster, much rede
larger ned
(and as
usually
idea, wholessseeangular).
it as ose whoto save
something are drawn
and to the A-frame
celebrate and as an
update
with a sensitivity
inadaptation,
the followingnding to its past have
pageswaysillustrate, di
they erent
carry plans.
on theAs the projects
tradition of
acknowledging its history. to upgrade
ey seek athelivable
houseblend whileof old and
new, using the strictures of the form as a spur to creativity.
and e A-frame
fell only rst
to rise excited my interest
again. As aand student as a design
of popular idea that rose
architectural
culture,
these historic
examples preservation,
fascinating markers theof process
shifting of design,
taste acrossI nd
time. Whether triangular buildings, shag
Victorian-era Main Street facades, what is treasured one day is carpeting, or
disparaged
commonly the
do) next.
they When
tell us these
somethingideas reemerge
about the (as
past, they
but also,
recon
adoption. gured and interpreted,
What does theour about
interest the era
in A-frames of their re-
as documented in
this
the book suggest
direction of about
contemporary own time?
design Is
and it
a a discomfort
desire to with
retreat to
comfortingly
oftimetimidity recognizable symbols
aboutexperimentation,
the future? Or does of a bygone
it every
suggesthouseera? A symptom
a yearning forlooka
of playful when
like every other house and simplicity bred creativity? doesn’ t
— Chad Randl
Author of A-frame (Princeton Architectural Press)

is vacation property A-frame is a new build with modern

interiors. It’s located in Far Meadow, Yosemite, California.
FULL-TIME
SIMPLICITY
 KYST HUS
Union Bay, Vancouver Island

W
residence
tocreative
hen
year,
in
investvisionand
aand
homeresembles
belongingof to
has beenmore
the
itself,
in it. However, a
on theofmarket
adjacent
prospective
an
buyer
for more than a
out-building
property than
might a proper
be hesitant
to make allit shine.
this neglected A-frame needed was a
Christine
Vancouver and Antonie
Island when were
they en route
rst droveto meet
past with
what a realtor
they now on
call
Kyst Hus—the
tracks. Although dilapidated
the home property
and its stopped
lot were them inandtheirwild, they
forlorn
realized
beautiful. this place had the potential to become something very
Christine
neighborhood and Antonie’s
of bustling home at thedidtime,notlocated
Toronto, even in thea Beaches
have
backyard.
would allow is
theirovergrown
three parcel
children of
(ages land on
four, Vancouver
six, and Island
eight) to
run
the free andA-frame
island unrestricted.
tugged at eirtheircityhearts.
life had been emselvesenjoyable,
both but
raised
they in
wanted rural
to areas,
raise Christine
their children and Antonie
in a place realized
where how
they much
could
really roam.
Four
Antonie weeks
had after
sold discovering
their home the
in the property,
Beaches, Christine
resigned andfrom their
jobs, said goodbye
country into their A-frame. to friends and family, and moved across the
Over
oversaw the course
major of the next
renovations four
to years,
restore Christine
Kyst Hus toand
a Antonie
home of
simple
builder beauty
fromvisionand modern
the outset design.
who agreed ey were
tohigh-function able
work closelydesignto nd
with them a to
bring
life. Kaitheir
Lawrence of
of minimalism
Standingbear and Construction is a local to
custom
and home
Antonie’s builder who patiently listened to all of Christine
the most of theirideas
smallandspace.
needs, and helped the family to make
Due
nearly to the condition
everything had oftothe
be home and
modernized. surrounding
In the property,
interior they
overhauled
redid the the layout;
ooring and upgraded
stairs the kitchen
throughout; and bathrooms;
extended the loft area;
and
unstable replaced lighting,
outbuilding, windows,
originally and
a doors.
garage and ey updated
carport, to the
serve
asis now
a woodshed
able to and inartist’s
work what studio.
has been Christine,
christened an artist
“Kyst by trade,
Hus
Studio,” just a stone’s throw from the house.
Landscaping
tackle during was
theandperhaps
massive their
renovations:most interesting
thebeaches hurdle
area contains to
a high
volume
Rather of
thanrocks ght the boulders,
natural similar
topography to of their nearby.
new home,
Christine and Antonie chose
integrated feature in their landscaping. to incorporate the rockwork as an
Living minimally has become a way of
Everything in the home does double duty: something can’t just life for the family of ve.
look
palette good,
to it also
white has
and to
natural provide
tones storage.
provides Limiting
an open the color
feel that
extends
contemporary to the outside;
furnishings the airy feel of midcentury and
also works to make the smallcomplements
space feel larger. the architecture but
Both
was Christine
natural forand
them Antonie
that have
their family
decor ties
include to Denmark,
in uences so
of it
Danish
word design.
hygge: a Kyst
moment Hus is
that perfectly
feels encapsulated
especially cozy, by the
charming, Danish
or
special.
acknowledgingHaving hygge
a moment or being
when the hyggeligt
ordinary is about
feelsbeen very
extraordinary.
hyggeligt,” “Our
Christine experience
explains. living
“Every here
morning has when we wake
up, we
go away.” feel like we are on vacation. at feeling never seems to
Despite
become being
a a
regular small
eventgathering
in the Kystspace,
Hus entertaining
A-frame; has
sharing a meal
with
weather two or three
arrives, other
Kyst Hus families
is the is the
outdoors. norm. When
With the the
frontwarm
and
back
home doors that
seamlessly open onto
integrates east- and west-facing
thestorm-watching
garden and surrounding decks, the
woods.
windows Inisthe
a winter
highlight,months,
as well as observing thethrough
wildlifethe front
that
traverses the property.
Christine
older, theirandfamily
Antoniewill know
look that when
back fondly theonchildren
the years become
that they all
ttheyin recognize
this one-bedroom
that having cabin together.
enough space While will they’d
become love
a to stay,
challenge.
could e couple
incorporate two isextra
reviewing
bedrooms planswhile for anpreserving
addition that
the
integrity
from this of the
home A-frame.
if we don’ “Perhaps
t nd a we
plan will
we have
love,” to step
Christine away
muses.
“Time
reject any will idea
tell! Atofthis point,it. theatkids
leaving is justadorenethiswithlittle
us.”cabin and
Artwork
& II. behind sofa is Christine’s---a diptych called Barnacles I
Tree
rst stumps-turned-co
trees cut down on ee
the tables originated
property. When from
the one
ower of the
pattern in
atheycouple of the rounds was spotted by Christine
rescued the tree stumps from the re pile. and Antonie,
Asloft,a agift,beloved
Antoniefeature
built Christine a library
of the house. at the front of their

e 1970s
walls. e A-frame
new once
owners enjoyed
have shag
preferred carpet
to tailorand turquoise
their home in a
simple, open
textures. style with earthy neutrals and plenty of rustic
Close-up of the diptych Barnacles I & II in the main living space.
Kitchen
inmetal island
salvaged was
cedar customized
fence panels;from
the Ikea
top cabinets
was craftedand
by wrapped
a local
fabricator. Wheels allow the island to be oriented in any
direction.
Acollaborated
portion of aon,triptych Christine and her youngest son
named by Kai: All the Fish are Dead. Kai
Christine made the festive ags in the kids’ play space,
Christine’s
hangs from piece
one Abstract
of the few No. 10,
straight e Heavens
walls in the Are
homeWeeping,
in the
upstairs bathroom.
e master bedroom on the second oor opens to the balcony.
 e master bedroom looks out
Christine, On A Summer’s Day. onto the living room. Artwork by
 e
--therenovation
kids sleep included
in the installing
loft, akin to aa loft
giant in the
bunk master
bed, bedroom-
three in a
row.
Kyst Hus translates to Coastal House in Danish. e family
enjoys kayaking, canoeing, and swimming at the nearby beach.
.
 e best views of the ocean can be seen from the second- oor
balcony

e A-frame’s
property’s expansive
gardens and windows
glimpses and
of deck
the a
ocean.ordeviews of
family the
has
been working on strategic landscaping to enhance privacy.
 TRIANGLE HOUSE
Sag Harbor, New York

T
from
riangle
roof
of
this
Queens
Sag
era,
House,anda red
shakes
Harbor,
it
policeman was
clapboard
New
built
turned
cedar
York,
from ain
A-frame
trim,
1965.
kit.
localInitially
was
e
Sag Harbor
with
built
Like
yellow
many
original
into thecedar
hillside
A-frames
owner,
barkeep, a
constructed the house himself. he used
home but later relocated to his A-frame permanently. it as a vacation
Current
proprietors homeowners
to inhabit Edgar
Triangle and Michelle
House, whichare only
they the second
discovered in
2013 through
encountered a local
thewerehouse,property
necessary listing. When
changes became they rstimmediately
obvious.
main level ere
of the home,only two
and tiny
the bedrooms
tiny galley tucked
kitchen away
was on the
inadequate
daylight for preparing
basementthehadmain meals
beenlevelleftandfor family
un thenished, and friends.
and there were no e
stairs connecting
(necessitating a stroll outside to do one’s basement
laundry). Beyond the
impracticalities
required two of layout,
giantApropane the lack
tanks of insulation
to provide in
heatbeenthe home
through the
northeast
onto the winters.
front of the slapdash
house wouldsunroom
have that
to be had
torn out tacked
completely, and a decrepit
the home’s outdoor appearance and function. rear deck left much to be desired in
Despite all of these hurdles, Edgar and
willing to completely reimagine the space to make it their own. Michelle were ready and
e couple
demolished devised an “upside-down”
every wallr onstructure. con
the mainNewlevel,insulationguration and
strippingandthesiding housewas
down
installed,to its Douglas
and its heating and electrical systems and plumbing
were replaced. e kitchen and
scratch in new, more sensible locations of the home.bathroom were re-created from
e airy,
initially open
drew quality
Edgar of
and the design
Michelle towas
the one
house, of the
so things
it was that
important
e structural to them
struts that this quality
on theamain be magni
level were ed in the
Edgar’sinadditions,remodel.
with
frame the intent
that hadn’ of tcreating
existed new
before. spatial
A new dynamism
spiral stair wasthe A-
added,
and new openings
allow windows in every bedroom.in the concrete block foundation were cut to
e
small family
by now
typical lives in their
“super-sized” A-frame
American year-round,
standards. which At is
just rather
over
1,100
ispursue square
engaged feet
constantly. in total, the main
e upside-down kitchen/living/dining
layout allows room
them to
their
cooking—together interests—chief
in the among
openness ofthem
the music,
space. art,e and
kitchen
table provides a place to tackle homework
for a casual dinner with friends. Privacy can be sought in the or to gather around
basement level, where the bedrooms y an additional
and g
bathroom are located.
e family has a few more modi cations in mind for the A-
frame, but not many: the simplicity of the space suits them well.
Elevated
impressionintothattheone
treeiscanopy,
oatingTriangle House gives the distinct
in the woods.
Alookout
narrowamong
balconythewinds
trees around
and the
beyond house,
to the o ering
Peconic the
Bay perfect
of Long
Island.
Rustic and simple in nature, Triangle
from its more conventional neighbors. House sets itself apart
Exposed Douglas r, vaulted ceiling, and open loft space
contribute to Triangle House’s signature A-frame elements. all
Abilling
vintageon Fisher-Price Little People
the family bookshelf. A-Frame doll house gets top
Fireplace
tohisbeo aboutis an
40 electric
years model
old. e from
ladderSears,
is Roebuck,
Edgar’s estimated
access point to
ce in the loft via the catwalk.
Edgar
living and
spaceMichelle
during had
their the spiral
extensive staircase
remodel cut
of into
the the main
A-frame: a
modern update with retro air.
Table, circa 1970, was purchased
are original Arne Jacobsen. at an antique dealer. Chairs
Structural
odynamism struts
the existing bolstering
angles of thethe catwalk
roof, work perpendicularly
contributing to the spatial
of the A-frame.
Edgar,
only an architect
accessible via by
a trade,
ladder uses
on thethe loft
main as his
oor, home o
connecting ce.
to It
theis
catwalk.
 POLAR STAR
Bethlehem, New Hampshire

W
noted.
hen
New
rst
Polar
Julia
home
Star
relocated
came on the
to
York forpurchase—“a northern
market
New
a job, she didveryso‘adult’
about a
Hampshire
prepared
step
year
toinmake
into
search. e minute Julia stepped into the A-frame, she loved it.
from
life,”
her
her
she
Ithome:
was both the a
950manageable
square feet size
were and condition
just enough for
space her to
for call
her things
from
enough her previous Brooklyn home, and the A-frame had just
spendingprojectsa fortune.to update it the way she wanted to without
Nellie,
ran a the
tour previous
bus companyowner of
out this
of cozy New
Pennsylvania. Hampshire
Polar Star home,
was her
vacation
built-in home, and
shelving addedshetotooktheimpeccable
interiors, care with
along of it.quite
Nellieahad few
other
the unique
kitchen storage
wall for elements—a
things like foil small
and metal
plastic cabinet
wrap, andinset into
storage under the stairs for rewood.
With glass-tile
countertops in backsplash,
the kitchen, KraftMaid
the classic cabinetry,
midcentury and Formica
design is just
the
acre beginning
wooded of
lot. Polar Star’s
e views charm.
of themorning e
woods andhouse borders
fromprovide
the bedroom a three-
are
anrowidyllic way to wake up
seat to the evolving seasons.every a front-
snow e home
fallingis cozy in winter
all around;as the with the
outdoors and replace
become stoked up and
a secondprojects
living
space
are in
taken the
up summer,
and outdoor landscaping
meals on the gardening
patio become a regular
occurrence.
Asthirda former
oor ofapartment
a building dweller
to call in Brooklyn,
home; the Juliafootage
square had theofentire that
apartment
andough, beingbeingwas bigger
a homeowner than
made the A-frame.
it worth But
the the
move wooded
from the setting
city.
Star: there was one
that with
time nature
the isn’t without
A-frame was its drama
broken at Polar
into—by a
squirrel.
Glass tile backsplash runs throughout the kitchen.
Julia’s love of midcentury design, and rare nds discovered
her travels abroad, serve to enhance the A-frame’s decor. on
 e second bedroom in the A-frame, serving as
room, looks out onto the front of the property. an o ce/guest
Midcentury chair was found by Julia
Brooklyn; she put it back together. in pieces on the street in
Julia found
designed inthis
the chair
1960s in
byLittleton,
Sam NH, at
Resnick, aa vintage
teacher shop.
at the It was
Putney
School in Putney, VT.
for a school fundraiser. e chairs were a limited production made
Turquoise leather chair was formerly in the Princess
the Mt. Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods, NH. Room at
 e master bedroom
acre wooded lot. looks out onto part of the property’s 3-
Ann Sacks glass tile in classic
used for the shower surround. mid-mod blue and orange was
 e bathroom vanity and integrated concrete
Julia and her boyfriend) is sleek and modern. sink (poured by
 e property
developed, soabuts
Julia a 700-acre
has the land
peace oftrust
mind that
thatwill
she never
won’ be
t be
looking out at neighbors anytime soon.
 e A-frame’s
1960s---when previous
Julia owner
moved in, named
she the
chose tohome
keep Polar
the Star
name. in the
Julia
had the house numbers made to add her own personal touch.
 A-FRAME REFRAME
Mill Valley, California

T
Mill
aken
Paul
found,
Valley,
midcentury
by itsimmediately
fellquite
charm andforsetting,
California.by
home aduring
accident,
e couple
the
just
homeowners
light-
north
came
a spontaneous
lled
of
upon San
the
Internet
Andrew
A-frame they
Francisco,
authentic
search
and
for
in
properties
market for under
a new certain
house at price
the timepoint.
but ey
were were not
intrigued in
bythe
their
discovery.
weekend Since they planned to be in the area the same
to stop byastoitsseeopen house showing,
the A-frame in person.Andrew and Paul decided
Despite
atthought an
the faded immediate
treasure in rst impression
disrepair made ofitneglect,
clear a
that closer
a lot look
of
little had been put into how the home was built. is sad
was ahouse
story was
here.very
As itspecial—Andrew
turns out, they were and Paulright.were sure there
Abegentleman
built in 1953named
by Ken
Wally Pratt had
Reemelin, commissioned
an industrial the A-frame
engineer at to
UC
Berkeley.
the San Pratt wasChronicle.
Francisco an architecture
He had and
seen travel
the feature writer
A-frames that for
Reemelin
Reemelin had
to built
build in
this the Berkeley
house for himhills
in in
Mill1948 and
Valley. asked
Unlike a
traditional
large bay A-frame,inReemelin
windows; the case built
of his homes
Pratt’s withthedormers
A-frame, whole and
south side of the
and the canyon below. house aunted windows with views of the trees
Nearly
frame’s sixty
quirkyyearsvibelater,
and Andrew
how it and Paul werean era
represented takenandbyway the ofA-
life of the
California: past.
open It was
living Sunset
in an Magazine
indoor/outdoor à la 1960s—the
space. eybest
lovedof
the house for what it was and what it could be.
Andrew
their and Paul bought the A-frame in
purchase the delighted pair undertook a complete 2011, and shortly after
renovation.
Working
architect with Steve
Michael Crutch
Sands, eld
they of True
created North
a new Construction
layout in both and
the
ground
original and second
vision, the levelsagreed
team of the A-frame.
they wanted Adopting
the houseReemelin’s
to
embrace
that were its surroundings.
natural—items that ey used
would materials
not clash and
with thefurnishings
lines of
the
treeshouse, keeping it as a simple backdrop to the views of the
and hills.
e home
paradise, remains
still very an
much unpretentious,
in line with 1,200-square-foot
the original homeowner’s
vision.
weekend At retreat,
rst Andrewbut and Paul anticipated
later—smitten by the usingtoit asliveonly
desire more a
simply—they moved in permanently. We’re not surprised.
 e A-frame
entertaining.opens onto a 750-square-foot deck, great for
 e rst ight of stairs is oating, a reference to the subtle
midcentury modern design that is found throughout the house.

e updated
features kitchen
exposed took
shelvingthe
andplace
a of the once-dining
custom-built island. area.
Heath It
Tile
was used in the kitchen and downstairs bath.
Revolution
bedroom. Woman by Shepard Fairey hangs outside the master
 e A-frame
letting this beams are
structural spaced
necessity every
becomeseven
an feet. Rather
obstacle in than
the
master
beams bedroom, the furniture has been arranged so that the
in the tipsimply
of anserve as a playful reminder that one is standing
A-frame.
Awell,
simple palette of colors and materials was used upstairs
including the addition of a tongue and groove ceiling. as
 e updated
countertop. downstairs bath includes repurposed wood for the
Anbright
abundance of windows
throughout the day. ensures the home stays light and
 CALM & COLLECTED
Long Island, New York

W
she
hether
eresa
discovered
onabroad,
traveling
the
her partner, Freddie.
a hike, seeking
loves to
A-frame
or treasures
creating
explore—and
she now
a new
so
resides it
in
atpiece
was
a eaof market,
art,
tting
year-round when
with
For
had the two
rented of
an them,
A-frame the purchase
in the hills was
of Losa natural
Angeles choice.
while ey
living on
the
fall West Coast
in loveone’s and
withspirit it was
the A-frame’s this experience
higheresa that caused
ceilings.describes.
“ e soaring them
lines to
energize
vast windows, “the and
connectionsoul,” to nature while living With
in ansuch
A-
frame becomes a catalyst to better connect with yourself.”
After
another a move
rental, to this
the East
time Coast,
in Sag eresa and
Harbor, New Freddie
York, in settled
an old into
sea
captain’s
A-frames house
was well that they
known, fully
so intended
when a to
friend buy.
tippedBut their
eresaloveo for
to
one
and which
she andhadFreddiejust come boughton theit immediately.
market, she tracked it down,
e
East 1,500-square-foot
End. Constructed house
in 1972, is located
the in
A-frame Long
sits Island
on a on the
half-acre of
land
plenty providing
of privacy serene
from views of theonwoods
neighbors either that
side. surround
It’s walkingit, and
distance
(one of to the
Freddie’s bay and
favorite a short
hobbies). drive to
eirMontauk
home refor sur
ects ng
eresa
and Freddie’s oflovetheirforbest
accumulation beautyexperiences.
and well-madeeresa things,
admits andthat
an the
biggest
exacerbated challenge
by herof living
penchant in the
for A-frame
collecting: full-time
it’s hardis to
showcase
wall, you art onto the
tend angled
clutter it,” walls.explains.
she “WhereShe’s you dolearning
have athatat
less
fewer is more
things and
in acknowledges
their house at anyshe’ll end
given up
time. having
But that to have
won’ t stop
her—she
just have can’to editt helpmore,”
but bring eresahome things that she loves. “I will
concludes.
eresa’s
handmade discerning
items for eye
their and
home passion
has for
made nding
their soulfully
A-frame feel
warm
their and cozy.
travels or Manybeen
have of these
found items
in a have
special beenway.pickede result
up onis
many
most little treasures
meaningful coming
memories. together
e unique to celebrate
attributes the
of couple’s
the A-
frame
make itanda treasure
the careinthatitself.has gone into making this one a home
Hardy, the 8-year-old
in the main room. A enpinscher, enjoys the natural sunlight
 e light over the kitchen
Rose Bowl Flea Market. table was found by eresa at the
You Have Everything
Deedee Cheriel. You Need Growling Bear silk screen by
Spiral staircase and replace are original to the A-frame.
Unique
place totextiles
stay. make
eresa this guest
cites room
Georgia a colorful
O’Kee e and and peaceful
Frida Kahlo as
primary in uences on her decor.
 eresa has long nurtured a love
cozy decor of the master bedroom. of textiles, evidenced by the
 e “double-A” structure of
bathrooms in the “little A.” this A-frame houses the kitchen and
Unique
the and
home beautiful
remind the objects, thoughtfully
homeowners to be placed
inspired throughout
by beauty, life,
and nature.
HERITAGE HOMES
 A-FRAME LEGACY
Deering, New Hampshire

T
beach
summer.
heareroots
grandfather
made
grandparents
crowds
ofof.thisLonghumble
that
In search
took out
desired
would
of land
a
a
abode
before
descend
maponand
she
weekend
are born,
was
upon
whicha compass
what A-frame
getaway
the
Sarah’s
South
to build and
to
a cabin,Shore
drew
dreams
escape the
every
hera two-
hour
lived.drivee radius
compass around
line Scituate,
directed him Massachusetts,
to Deering, New where they
Hampshire,
land in whereweretheypurchased,
Deering found property
and anforA-frame
sale. Sixkitacres
was of
ordered. It was 1963.
was e completed
completely A-frame—built
o the grid and byithand,
would with
stay nothatelectric
way tools—
until
2012.
water Baths
was were
collected taken
for in the
washing stream
dishes. on thee property
scrappy and
A-frame rain
even
feet osurvived
its a small
footing. When tornado
it was inpushed
1968, back whenintoit wasplace,
movedthesix
sliding
Sarah’s glass
father door
builtstill
his worked—and
house on the still works
adjacent today.
land In
(where 1980,
he
still
the lives today)
home. e so he would
A-frame is be ablein sentiment
steeped to help withfromthetheupkeep close of
family
recalls ties. Sarah,
evenings atwho
the spent
A-frame weekends
spent at
playingher dad’s
dominoes place,with her
grandparents by kerosene lamp.
When Sarah’s
grandmother grandfather
spent less and passed
less away
time at in 1991,
their her
vacation home,
and
When eventually
the the
discussion family decided
ledat totheselling the A-frame
it toofalosing should
friendtheof the be sold.
family,
Sarah burst into tears thought
over many years had come to represent home to her. place which
Her
would husband, Matthew,
buy Anit themselves, sweetly
despite assured
having her that
no Sarah
idea how the two of
to fund them
the
purchase.
aunts’ shares agreement
based on a was drawn
ten-year up
payback for agreement,to buy her
and her
dad simply donated his share of
and Matthew were able to make the A-frame their own. the home’s worth. Soon Sarah
e space
tobymake is neither
themselves fussy
at home. nor fancy.
As a Kids
designer, and dogs
Sarah are
is welcome
enthralled
the “A”
fascinating shape.
to her, Any uniquely
and guring shaped living space
outarthowontonon-vertical is
live withoutsurfacesvertical
walls
has has
been abeen
fun a delight.
challenge Hanging
for the pair, as well as playing with a
1960s motif to pay homage to the origin year of the house.
Sarah
the has committed
details: the blankets to using
are alllotsvintage
of textures
and andsewn.
hand handcrafts
Women in
and
and women’s
macramé) work
in (such
uence as
the quilting,
decor, embroidery,
along with a cross-stitch,
few
Scandinavian
very proud of her elements,
heritage.as Sarah’s grandmother is Swedish and
Asheirlooms.
an only child,
Sarah’sSarah has
grandfather’sinherited her
tools family’s
can now behistory
found and
throughout
ofoldnewly the
bought A-frame
items used
in thecome as decoration.
A-frame, but wonderfulere
the mix of neware not a
and lot
family things makes
history, and the place
Sarah and alive—a
Matthew creating their mix
own of
history in the home as the years go by.
Sarah
the androom.
living Matthew“Co spend
ee in themorning,
the majority ofcocktails
their time in lounging
the evening,in
and
Walking reading
a on
mile the
down couch
the in
road between”
to swim is
in how
the they
pond, put
or it.
sitting on
the
Matthewporchget.
sipping
But a cocktail
the connection is about
to as outdoorsy
nature is still as Sarah and
relished:
they’re
road. four miles
Listening to out
the of town
wildlife, on a sparsely
hearing the populated
leaves dirt
rustling in the
wind, and seeing
tomemories.
experience thethe
calmstars
of this comecherished
out at night
home,arefullpriceless ways
of so many
Sarah’s
inhistheir and Matthew’s
A-frame and onehope
day as a
hand couple
the is
keys to
o grow
to old
their together
son and
children.
learned how As a designer,
to gracefully and as a granddaughter,
honor her family history Sarah
while has
injecting
home thatthe present
represents and
where themselves
she came into
fromthe home
and as
where well.
she It’s a
wants to be.
With nobyinsulation
visited mice, thetoA-frame
competeis against theonly
inhabited winter
as acold,
warm-and often
weather vacation home.
“Wood and shingles, I say.” “It’s truly a cabin,” according to Sarah:
oute rough
kitchenideas
interior
for was builtguring
recon by Sarah’s
the father—she
space and he sketched
constructed
itmaterial
as a surprise. e raw cherry countertops
Sarah’s father had on-hand. were made from
 e
home,replace,
is despite
actually a at a glance
gas-burning appearing
replace original
and is a to
very the
recent
addition to the A-frame. e chair is vintage.
Family
planer treasures
belonged adorn
to shelves
Sarah’s in the dining
grandfather; the room:
photos e
arewooden
a
random
ago. collection
e Time of
Lifeshelfgroup shots
seriesherbelonged Sarah began
to Sarah’s collecting
grandparents years
and
has been on that entire life. e bottom shelf
with comic books—a favorite genre for Sarah and Matthew. is packed
ABOVE AND BELOW:
grandfather in 1980 aseandining roomtowas
addition built by Sarah’s
the kitchen.
Vignettes of old (and sometimes new) things
home convey fresh energy to the space. throughout the
 e master
byandSarah’s bedroom was
grandfather. part
e of the
blankets 1980
in theaddition
home completed
are all vintage
hand-made. e wicker elephant was a thrift store nd.
 e loft in the peak of the A-frame overlooking the living room is
a special spot, used as a library, and often a quiet writing room.
 e living
grandparents.room sofa belonged
Initially to Sarah’s
upholstered in a maternal
deep orange wool (and
decades
life. old), a recent canvas reupholstering gave the sofa new
 e oar
Sarah’s alongside
teenage the
son sliding
while on glass
a door was
months-long hand-carved
outdoor by
expedition.
ABOVE
and AND BELOW:
Matthew to host Plenty
partiesofwith
outdoor
as spaceas has
many 40 enabledin Sarah
guests
attendance, camping out overnight.
 SUMMER PLAYHOUSE
Amagansett, New York
“Summer
described use
the playhouses”
beachfront was howhe architect
homes designed Andrew
along Geller
Long
Island, New
industrial York,
design, throughout
Geller the
designed 1950s
theseand ’60s. Trained
playhouses in his in
free
time. Fashioned
quirky, withand—with
functional, modernistmostleanings,
being the homes
priced at were
under
$10,000—quite a ordable.
Into 1958,
design Geller
a simplewas commissioned
beach house on by
a Leonard
dune in and Helen
Amagansett, Frisbie
New
York.
must eir
include only requirements
a smalllater, were
deckthethathome
would that it had
reach over to be simple
the ridge and
of the
dune.
house Six decades
charm. A tad windswept aftermaintains
all these its quirky
years, it beach
now
serves as an annual summer
Lenora and William, and their families. retreat for the Frisbies’ children,
were e two siblings
neither neededagreed
nor early
desired.on thate elaborate
beach renovations
house provides
comfortable,
visitors though certainly
in theindoor/outdoor
summer months:shower rustic, accommodations
there serves
is no insulation for its
or heat,
and
amenity a single
the home has to o er. Pulley-drawn as the
ladders mostleadmodern
up to
the
and loft space for elevated views. Folding counters in the kitchen
smalltinyspace.
upstairs rooms with bunk beds make the most of the
Proving
decor andto be
e a
ectsbit of
are a time
the capsule,
Frisbies’ most
original of the playhouse’s
furnishings. e few
replacements
they’ve been madesince
there overthethebeginning.
years wereFound selectedbeachto look like
objects
displayed in nooks and on shelves become
windows provide enchanting views of the sand and the sea. art. Expansive
Nature
inhabitants.playsImmediate
a very largeoceanrole inaccess
the experience
is one of but
thing, its William’s
son,
body Matt,
gettingtesti
into es to
the the camp-like
rhythm of experience:
nature, where “You
you’re nd your
getting up
with the sun.”
Month-long
occupant’s visits
favored to the Frisbie
hobbies. house
Swimming, are bodylled with each
boarding,
reading,
are playing the guitar, and shing abound. Many nights
daysspent usuallycamping
end withoutaonsurftheordeck
walkoralong
on thethebeachbeach.below. eir
e Frisbie
synchronicity house
with carries on
nature—and the tradition
as Lenora of
and simplicity
William and
plan to
keep
yearstheto come.
A-frame in the family—the tradition will continue for
A guest house was added to the beach property in 1971.
A pulley-drawn ladder connects to the loft.
ABOVE
capsuleAND
as BELOW:
second and e A-frame
third has become
generation familyan eclectic
members time
spend
summers there.
Leonard Frisbee painted this likeness of the A-frame;
paint on found beach wood while staying at the house. he used to
 e A-frame
decor. Any has maintained
additions have much
been of
chosenits original
with the furniture
intention and
of
matching the A-frame’s beachy rustic aesthetic.
 e living
beach. On room
less provides
active a
days, front-row
sunsets seat
are to the
enjoyed windswept
from the
oceanside deck with a cocktail
huddles inside for board games. in hand. On rainy days the family
Plywood
beloved boards
family up a broken
A-frame. window
Skylights on the
provide second
warmth level
and of
light this
to
the interior.
 EAGLE ROCK
Los Angeles, California

B
Joe grew
old orange
greet
Birman,
doors
visitors at
father
up inasNew
and
England
andformer
the a smattering
creative
aspired to experience the unusual.
home
but Army
scientistof ofgeologist
fell inAirloveCorps
potted succulents
who
with Los
Joe
generally
Angeles
after serving
followed by an
moving oto cer in the
Southern California for in
his the 1940s,
education. He
went to the California
he received his PhD. Institute of Technology and UCLA, where
His
live.interest
Early in
on, the
Joe unusual
raised was
his re
family ected
in a in where
Schindler he chose
home, a to
place
best
134 known
Freeway for its stylish
construction. modernity,
He would until it
eventually was taken
purchase by the
Eagle
Rocke 1963
HouseA-frame
because he
(and could
its not
eponymous resist the unique
neighborhood) architecture.
takes its
name from a prominent rocky outcropping
resembling an eagle with outstretched wings. in the area
Joe bought
Angeles DJ. the
He Eagle
found Rock
the A-frame
idea that an from a
artist well-known
had owned Los
the
home
people before him
toBeethoven,most
enjoy. Neighborsintriguing.
were e home
treated tonot was designed
concert-level for
pianoon
music of
amidcentury
1909 babystereo Mozart,
grandsystem. or Chopin—if
piano, thene vaulted
certainlyceilings by Joe’s
from hisareamazing hands
their acoustics, but evenJoemoreneverso fortiredtheofview they a delight for
aforordtheof the
San Gabriel
roughly fortyMountains.
years he lived in his A-frame. that
Nor view
did anyone who
would
place come to visit. e Eagle Rock A-frame is truly a special
impact.by any measure: though humble in size, it has a grand
Upon entry, guests are greeted by
spanning two levels of the home. a showstopping window
A quiet nook beside the stairs to do one’s work.
Joe
andlledhad an eclectic taste
photographed after inhisfurniture;
passing, whileA-frame
the the home
waswas staged
always
with unique pieces, 1960s and earlier.
 e living room
entertaining opens
and o onto
ering a partially
enviable viewssheltered
of the deck,
San ideal
Gabriel for
Mountains.
Inbedroom/o
the 1980s, ceJoespace
workedto match
with anthearchitect
style ofto design
the a
house. third
e
replace was added at that time.
Two of
style. the three bedrooms decorated in a mid-mod bohemian
ARTISTS AT WORK
 INSIEME HOUSE
Sanbornton, New Hampshire

F
home
orouthomeowners
woods
uninsulated
the hadn’
ofbecome
as
interior
aof New
structure
t been
and
Astridseasonal
ramshackle,
Hampshire.
used
inhabited
exterior,
and Brian,cottage
only during
forInsieme
the
Insieme
Previously
the a
Houseawaystarted
tucked
derelict,
summertime,
years. A-frame
anks tohas
in
the
a fullsince
remodel
the
a year-round residence to this family of three.
Extensive
with renovations
backgrounds in haveneallowed
the arts, to this
put creative
their couple,stamp
collective both
on(antheinterior
unorthodox
decorator home.by When
trade) designing
didn’ t feel their
inclinedspace,
to Astrid
decorate
itinastheaLakes
traditional,
Region woodsy
of New cottage
Hampshire. that one
“I mightwanted
really typicallyour nd
home
such ato feel
quiet like
and a worldly
remote retreat,
area,” especially
Astrid explains. because
“It was wemy live in
intentional
world.” way of connecting to the vastness of the outside
Whitewashed
freshness and walls
serenity throughout
to the most
space of
while the home
serving bring
as an ideal
backdrop
objects to for
be a mélange ofFirst-time
appreciated. colors, patterns,
guests textures,seem
always and
surprised
the space when
is; yet they
at thevisit,
same commenting
time the on
home howfeelsunconventional
cozy and
familiar.
e family’s
tore painting, widespread
men’s couture interests
to heavy in the
metal. arts range
eir from
creative design
eye is
home’s ected clearly
design in the unique
aesthetic is eclectic, architecture and decor.
greatly rein contrast e
ecting Astrid’s
penchant
traditional for incorporating
forms, always withglobal
the touches
underlying intention with
of
creating
while an
still environment
being subtly that feels
chic. “I adorethey comfortable and
artful,havelayered inviting
spaces that
exude
Astrid exoticism
adds. When and elegance—but
asked which designers have to be livable,”
inspired her in
this home,
designers she declares,
whoBergamin
come to mind “ ere are so many
as havingandindesigner inspirational
uenced mybased particular
style,
Paulo, but Sig
Brazil] is de nitely[an architect
one of my favorites. Very few canin São
masterfully layer, mix,
periods, and styles like he does.” and manipulate colors, patterns,
e unique,
something almost
the whole surreal
family experience
has come of
to living
appreciate. in an A-frame
As Astrid is
points
compared out, “A standard
to livingelement home
in a triangle!” with regular
In response walls can
to thethey never
very be
signature
resorted A-frame
to using built-ins of steeply
wherever angled
possible walls,
to create more
storage and to maximize usable space.
frame,e barrel-vaulted
represents foyer,
one of which
the mostthe Insiemes
unique added
features ofto the
the A-
home
because
than of its
aanveryelement unusual
narrowof entry architectural
space leading design. It’s nothing
into theonekitchen, more
but it
adds
frame. To add to the unexpected
impact of drama
the space, when the enters
homeowners the A-
hung
atocluster
be Astrid’sof perforated Moroccan pendant lights—which happen
arched ceiling.most cherished collection of wares—from the
Ensconced
frame is in nature
sequestered in Sanbornton,
behind a grove New
of Hampshire,
pine trees in the
the A-
front
and
luxury sideof oflaketheaccess:
house.Hermite property
Lake, also enjoys
situated just thea fewaddedhundred
feet
family fromenjoysthe property,
swimming can
andbe seen
canoeing fromin their
the front
summer yard.
months e
and
change arecolor
able toandwitness
snow the passageuponof seasons
descends them for astheleaves
many long
months
their of
backyard winter.for e
as family
much has
of the made
year it
as a priority
the weather to maximize
permits.
Decks
re pit forfarther
loungingback have
in thebeen
yard, added,
for as well
those as a permanent
evenings of drinking
wine
while and roasting
renovating marshmallows.
the bathroom they One memorable
actually bathed summer
outdoors
using a makeshift shower rigged to a pine tree.
e
Brian’sevolution
creative of Insieme
personas, House
as thetruly re
renovation ects both
and Astrid and
transformation
love from of
themreferred this property
both. While has
renovating very much been
thisinstallation
house together a labor of
has
been
artists playfully
have ever worked to as
on, the
they largest
admit their work is piece
far these
from
complete.
“Ievolve
trulyorganically,
believe homesjustareas entities
their on their ownAstrid
inhabitants,” and shouldexplains. As
athefamily,
personal the Insiemes
and want
professionalto continue
pursuits dedicating
that ful ll themselves
them—and to
keep
frameliving
in thethewoods life they’ve
of Newdesigned
Hampshire.for themselves in their A-
 e barrel-vaulted
much-needed entryfoyer was added
space/boot ontoandtheis A-frame
room, lit by ascluster
this a of
Moroccan pendant lamps.
Foyer design was conceived and the project
from Astrid’s father, visiting from Portugal. executed with help
Vintage replace was found online, painted a 1970s orange.
Astrid and Brian resurfaced it with high heat white paint.
Cowhide rug
upholstered was
benchpurchased
is woods from an
used asbya their eBay
co eehome vendor.
table.during e hide-
Mooseaskull was
found
run. by Brian in the morning
ABOVE
were AND
thrift BELOW:
store ndsVintage
and mirrors
painted in
white.the foyer
Rugs areand kitchen
woolen
dhurrie runners. Mirrored rack shelving
is a door concealing the electric panel. olive oils and vinegars
Door
the to the
A-frame, home’s only
repurposed. bathroom
It was is the
painted original
white front
with somedoor to
graphic detailing
mirrored insets. and its inset glass panes were replaced with
 e bathroom’s
feet, is diminutive
reminiscent of a yet
jewelrybold
box. presence,
Sink at
vanity roughly
was a 5
hand-x 6
painted Moroccan nightstand which was upcycled.
Moroccan
exotic pom-pom
bedroom. bedspread
Photographs inand pillows
hallway contribute
were taken to
duringthe
Brian and Astrid’s travels.
Perforated Moroccan
the peaked ceiling. pendant light adds a unique shimmer to

Black-and-white paintings
byusingBrianwoodwhenrecycled
he wasfrom are mixed
a teenager. e media
desk on paper,
surface wascreated
made
table. Brian’s childhood family dining room
Atohanging swing
enjoy the view.chair on the back porch provides a quiet place

Astrid and Brian built the concrete re pit themselves

complemented the outdoor space with Adirondack chairs.and
 ROOM TO GROW
Lake Arrowhead, California

W
upon this
Savannah
hen
Lake
SavannahtheyandwereDavid
mountains,
mountain home
Arrowhead to get
A-frame the
resolvedtoto move
determined
full
on a
nd
experience.
rental
a to the
proper
Stumbling
agency listing,
and David knew it was the perfect place for them to
focus and grow.
 eir
career idyllic
and escape was
responsibility, not butpursued
rather for
to the
open sake
up of
both avoiding
the time
and
designer,the space to dive
andaherpart-time in head
one-timebusiness. rst. Savannah
hobby ofDavid is
makingis inplant a graphic
holders has
taken
developmento into and maintains a business making real estate
furniture, such
asowntables and benches,
and run the lifestyle from reclaimed
shop Road Trip,wood. Together
whichof another the
supportsA-frame pair
local
and
just aAmerican-made
short drive fromproducts
their and
home. is run
Savannah out and David’s desire
was
endeavorsto get out of the city to focus on establishing all of these
build on. and developing them into something they could
e polar
California), opposite
their of
A-framewhere is they
secludedwere living
and before
brimming (Burbank,
with nature
and
bursts animal
of life. Seasons
autumn foliage, arewinter
experienced
snowstorms, at their
springfullest with
showers,
and
toa new a proper
the land, sun-
Savannah lled summer.
and David Because
encounter of this
changes new connection
in nature in
nesting way—such
in a nearby as tree,
the daily
and growth
woodpeckers of budsstoringin the acorns
spring, inbirds
their deck. In the summer, the house
its position on the hillside, enveloped in leaves. feels like a tree house from
e cedarportion
bottom woodofA-frame
the house restswasonpreviously
this hillsidebuilt on stilts.
out to e
include
asleeping
basementspace whichforSavannah
guests. and David use as an o ce or extra
Humorously
downsizing contrasted
for an A-frame, to mostthis people’s
Lake experience
Arrowhead in is
property
actually
bigger the
than largest
they needhomefor the
just couple
the two has
of lived
them, in
buttogether.
with the It’s
extra
inviting space,
friends Savannah
and familyandtoDavid stay are able
with them toand
entertain
enjoy often,
the
mountains as well.
Savannah
in eiran A-frameand David have
thatndthey’re so adored
already their
on the lookoutexperience of living
foroutanother.
hope
visitors—thereby is to one
sharing they
the can
belovedrenovate and
midcentury renthome to
design
with others to discover
forward, the A-frame way. and fall in love with. Consider it paying it
 y

Years
space ago,
in part
the of thecreating
home, A-framea lopsided
was pullede ectoutonto the
allowexterior.
for more
Many homes in the area share the same update.
Stairs lead to the master bedroom in the loft.
 e reside
1970s. pillow
Triangular was
shelf stitched
unit’s by
shape David’s
is grandmother
perfectly suited in
for the
the A-
frame. Weaving to the
designer Rachel Graves. right of the replace was made by
 e rug is vintage kilim, found
co ee table was made by David. by Savannah at a ea market. e
A window of plants blurs the line between outside and in.
Print hanging over the bed, a nature scene reminiscent of the
view out the A-frame’s windows, was found at a thrift store.
InFramed
the guest room,
cabin a New
drawing Moon
was Tapestry
sketched by hangs
an by
artist the bed.
friend. Map is
vintage. Woodpecker lamp was found at a thrift store.
Vintage tennis racket was found at a ea market.
 LUX LODGE
Hollywood Hills, California

N
Just like
estled
frame
the
in the Hollywood
reposes
neighbors.
most
has a layered history.
Lux quietly
Lodge
interesting
Hills, aitsmodest
among
is not
people to
in be
Los
more two-bedroom A-
ostentatious
dismissed,
Angeles, however.
the A-frame
e home
to,property, was
altered,whichbuilt from a Sears
and relooksnedoutbyonto kit
multiple in 1963
homeowners but has been
over added
time. e
now occupied the famous Hollywood sign, is
partner, Ryan (abyphotographer);
three: designer and and their
ceramicist
infantDesanka;
son, Rocky.her
After
previouslyher purchase,
owned byDesanka
the uncle discovered
of a friend her
of A-frame
hers who had been
recalled
playing
certainly with her cousins
doofhavethosea lasting in its oversized
erooectines. backyard.
on theDesanka
kids whoherself A-frames
growgrew up under
the shadow
spending summers iconic
at her father’s lake house, an A-frame up
cabin
heshebuilt himself
was onlyof the on Cheat
eight,A-frame Lake
but notandbefore in West Virginia. He sold
Desanka had developed fond it when
memories its enchantment.
When
itofwas Desanka
in dire found
need of Lux Lodge
repairs, but (via
it an online
reminded listing)
her so in 2012,
distinctly
she herhaddadto and
make herit her
childhood
own. Shesummers
undertook at thea full-scale
lake, sheremodel
knew
that
spiral retained the
staircase—a home’s
retro original
nod to itswoodburning
1960s beginnings replacein anand
otherwise
design. moreBiba,
Citing contemporary
Big Sur, and andtheeclectic
Golden bohemian
Girls as interior
her decor
inopenly
uences, the
gushes home
that shesimply
loves exudes
everything California
about calm.
her Desanka
A-frame—it is
her dream home. Except maybe it could do with more storage.
Asandanphoto
artist,shoots
Desanka here has been
thanks able
to the to hold
space workshops,
being perfectly events,
suited
level to host
is rented a small crowd.
out to a inmusician, A studio apartment
a longtime in
friendher the bottom
of Desanka’s.
Her
from art studio
home, resides
creating the
ceramics garage,
and which
other allows
products she to work
sells via
her online
artistic shop. e home boasts many of her ceramics and
stunningexperiments
pieces Desanka as itshasdecor as wellover
collected as atime.
handful of
Self-described
time cooking, homebodies,
watching movies, Desanka
and and Ryan
entertaining ll their
friends. freee
pair
frame looks
with forward
its to watching
spectacular their son
backyard, grow toupswim
learning in thisandcozy A-
climb trees as he creates lasting A-frame memories all his own.
Hyphy, one inof Los
purchased Desanka’s twowhite
Angeles; dogs,chair
lounges
is a on a custom sofa
reupholstered 1980s
swivel chair.
Original spiral stairs lead to the master bedroom and nursery.
Original replace heats the A-frame in cooler months.
Midcentury
Market. Rugdining tablebelonged
beneath was found
to at the Rosemother
Desanka’s Bowl Flea
who
purchased it in New Mexico.
Blush-colored
Desanka. She backsplash
enjoys tiles
spending above
time in the
the stove were
kitchen, made
which by
she
remodeled from a galley into a large, full-size kitchen.
Many of the ceramics
own creations. found throughout the home are Desanka’s
Aremodel
dormertowasaddadded
a to
water the side
closet andof the
a bedroom
walk-in during
closet with the
custom
wood doors.
bay window. A claw-foot tub sits inside the A-frame’s dormer
Sliding
which doors
provideso the main
privacy room
from the open up
street to a
below. patio
e closure,
macramé
plant holder is vintage.
 OUR MAGIC A-FRAME
Portland, Oregon

T helimited
midcentury
Portland,
A-frameoorstructure,
creative soul
modern
it in the bestOregon,
space,
to
homes.
is
embrace
with its steeply
anything
the but angled wallstakesanda
ordinary—it
eccentricities
Homeowners Anna of
and these
Srijon
of ways.have taken the idea of eccentric and run with
of
Toandstart,
speak the
oftwo
herrefer
more to
astheir
a home
trusted as “Our
friend Magic
than simply A-Frame”
a place to
put
poor one’s things.butWhen
condition, Annatheyandoriginally
Srijon found
saw so her, shepotential;
much was in it
was love at
exclaimed Anna. rst sight. “I knew she was my spirit home!”
Both Anna
collection and
of Srijon
colorful love
rugs to
and travel and
textiles have
along amassed
their a
journeys. large
Srijon,
both a painter,
himself lls
andtechniques the (non-slanted)
his friends.andAnnanatural walls
nds dyes; with art
herselfsheinspiredcreated
by by
artisan
thrifting weaving
and antique nds in the home with globally mixes her
sourced
items and plenty of houseplants.
e couple
(they both has been
work from able
home),to nurture
feeds a space
their that tsandtheiris still
creativity, needs
comfortable
online for
boutique the
called entire
Le family.
Souk Le Anna
Souk, owns
and and
Srijon manages
works asanan
artist.
Anna’sTogether
daughterstheyAva,share agethe 3,600-square-foot
fourteen, and Lilith, agehome ten.with
is home
bedroom was
wing built
and as
the a traditional
garage were A-frame
added in
on 1961;
in the the
early
1970s.
Frame Anna,forSrijon,
home three andyearstheand
girlscounting.
have called Our Magic
Cooking together,A-
entertaining
record guests
collection are in the
some backyard,
of the and
things listening
the family to their
most enjoys
together.
time in theDuring
backyard the summer
gardening, months theyand
grilling, spend most of their
sunbathing.
With
the views
unique of the
charm abundant
of the home, greenery
and that
the Oregon
opportunity is known
to pursue for,
their
truly art andworkinterests
does a kind together
of magic inoncomfort,
this familyOurthatMagic
is A-Frame
lucky
enough to call her home.
e A-frame’s skylight o ers a heavenly view.
Anfamily’s
abundance of natural light in the living room
many houseplants thriving year-round. keeps the
 e
are Moroccan
Suzani and cactus silk
Afghan; pillows
the glass are
domefrom Anna’s
houses a shop;
bird’s textiles
nest and
wasp’s nest from the yard.
Cherry
modern blossoms
light from
xture, the
and backyard
accented are
with illuminated
a vintage with
Suzani a
table
runner.
ABOVE
A-frame AND
withBELOW: Anna, Srijon,
artwork---much of and
their the
own, girls
a few have lled their
store-bought
items, and many antique nds.
back from a trip to Morocco. Rug and cushions were brought
Large
hand wall hangingfrom
embroidery in theUzbekistan
master bedroom
that is anfound
Anna antique silk
online.
Kantha
handira quilt on
(Moroccanbed was
weddingbrought back
blanket) from
was Bangladesh;
purchased in
Morocco.
the wall) Leather
is a piecepillow
nomad’s on bench (and
cover. Rug smaller
was foundleather
in piece on
Chefchaouen, Morocco.
ABOVE AND BELOW:
intheytheirholdchicken coop e creative
called couple
Chicken Coopopened an art
Contemporary,gallery
where
public exhibitions once a month.
 e master
leading to abedroom
balcony. overlooks
e dining the backyard
room o ers via French
direct doors
access to the
yard.
NOSTALGIC ESCAPES
 STREAMLINED SERENITY
Fire Island Pines, New York

H
seasonal
immediately
omeowners
busyness
corporate
home
of
where
Doug
New
life, so
they
andCity
York
when
Bill are
couldit and
came
get
nothestrangers
awayto demands
purchasing
from it
toofthe
all,
came to mind: a serene location and a midcentury
a
two things
modern aesthetic.
When they
anendinstant stepped
connection.onto the
e A-frame’s
house sits onisland
a property,
bay-front lot they
at thefelt
access of atosecluded
Great walkway.
South Bay e locationat atheords
and—being very direct
crest kayak
of the
island—sweeping
wanted in a views
locale, with down
the the
added shore.
bonus It was
of a everything
fair amount they
of
privacy.
Asanything
for thesohouse itself, Doug
streamlined and But
before. Bill since
have never
they lived ainproclivity
share
for midcentury
emotional modern
attachment to design,
the iconicin uenced
A-frame partly by
architecture an (they
are,
offor.theafter
Fireall,Island
children
A-frame of thewasSpace Age),what
precisely the mid-mod
they wereaesthetic
looking
While
ofnearly it
the home was this decades-old
was notonwithout charm
its costs: that drew
thethecouple them in,
hadframe the age
to replace
beams everything
and wood oor.the house,
Miraculously, save for
the heartoriginal
pine oors
sanded down
polyurethane—hands beautifullydown once liberated
the most from
pleasant fty years
surprise of
during
the
rotten renovation.
pilings Not
that so pleasant
extended only was
two the
feetdiscovery
below sea of several
level (as
opposed to the ten feet that
which necessitated strategic replacement. building code requires of them),
Along with
opportunities. the required
Working overhaul
with of the
architectural structure
rm also
Bromley came
Caldari,
Doug
midcentury and Bill were
withroof able
the made to
e ciency combine
ofrecycledtheir
the twenty- nostalgia for
rst century: thean
emissive
striking metal
while reducing from
energy costs and materials
the home’s is visually
carbon
footprint;
without smart glass
compromising inthethe master suite
stunning views;feature allows
and the for privacy
split
suspended staircase is a jaw-dropping
beauty of the home not just functionally but sculpturally. that serves the
Tranquil
itsof the and
sitinghouse exhilarating
whileextend
maximizing at the
its threesame
location; time, the
skylights house
onhome. respects
both sides
rough and smooth along
cedar the
combination stories
both of the
indoors and oute is
organic
functional magic.
beauty e simplicity
andhere.ingenuity of the interior design
of theofarchitecture allows the
to reallyand
shine.
maple Less is
cabinetrymoreare harmonized e textures
by the
precision cedar
millworkinterior
and a
light wash. Nothing is fussy; it’s a beach house, dammit.
Now
short Doug
of and Bill describe
inspired. e house their
ows home
e experience
ortlessly from as nothing
inside to out,
worshipping nature every step of the way.
windows framing the bay at every elevation, and the forest and With sweeping
roar of the ocean g at the backy of they house, a person feels wholly
connected
home. to the outdoors no matter where they are in the
Itsplayed
striking
in design
the Fire is rivaled
Island onlycommunity
Pines by the rolethrough
the housethe has
decades.
Doug
frame and
for Bill
years had
and lived
knewdownit asthe
quiteshore
the within
notorioussight of
party the A-
house.
“Sooner
toprevious
have someor later,”
sort Bill
of, divulged,
um, “everyone
experience at in
that the Pines
house.” seemed
e
anallegedly
anecdote homeowners
shared were the
among legendary;
locals there’sJudy Garland
about
seaplane; spending
and anothertime there,
recollected arriving at
incident the
of A-frame
Colleen by
Dewhurst
popping
continues over
to betotangible
visit frominnext
this door. Doug
place: e feeling
and of camaraderie
Bill have
become
the friends
A-frame, and with the
they’ve former
made atenants,
point to who still
decorate check
their in on
home
with artwork done strictly by local Fire Island Pines artists.
for eir
theA-frame
Fire has
Island become
community, a place that
nature, encapsulates
and their time their love
together.
Whether sitting
ofseathebreeze,
woodburning on the deck
stovea warmwith
with the friends
sound or getting
ofbond cozy
waveswithlapping in front
in the
magical they
place’s share
past, present, and
and loving
certainly future. this
Doug and
Bill plan to enjoy their A-frame every
explain, only willing to leave it for good feet rst. minute they can, they
ABOVE AND
renovated BELOW: Elegant in its simplicity, this newly
beach house.Fire Island Pines A-frame is a streamlined modern
Corona Chair,
onpurchased 1961,
time lapseby photosby
of Danish
solar designer
eclipses. Poul M.
Antique Volther
kilim rugbased
Doug in Marrakech.
Split stairs from the ground
accessing the second oor. level lead upward to a catwalk
Elliptical Saarinen table in marble accented with Madrid chairs.
ABOVE
ocean. ANDfurther
To BELOW: e master
enhance the bedroom
unique directly
space, smart faces
glassthe
windows that transition
cabinetry were installed.from clear to opaque and custom
Asecond
paintingbedroom.
by Kate Rudin entitled Houses hangs outside the
Den on the third
panorama views. level, known as e Crow’s Nest, provides
Chaise in front of the skylight is considered the captain’s chair.
Doug,
May Bill,
through and friends
September. practically
Long, lazylive at their outdoor
prosecco-soaked table
lunches,
sunset viewings
margaritas fueled by Doug’s signature frozen watermelon
fresco are the(withnorm.
jalapeño), and lantern-lit breezy dinners al
Vintage oxidized
architect. “Dan Lurie” weights, a surprise gift from the
 WHISTLER CABIN
Whistler, British Columbia

I nMelanie
Itofwas
want ofbuilt
some friends a
a modern
decade
the
of
spin onretreat
perfect
family in Whistler, British Columbia.
after ski
in thetimesame
the classic
weekends
area
for
that spent
cabin, Brenton
themselves
at
Brenton the
and
A-frame
andown.
Melanie
and
their
home
decided
keeping it
an was
eye high
out for a to
homend toa retreat of
purchase, their
the family While
just
couldn’
Whistler t nd
Cabinanything
is and they
now Melanie absolutely
built on became loved. When
available, the lot that
it wasandthetailornal
push for Brenton to take
their new weekend getaway to their wants and needs. on a new build
 e home
Scott blendsbased
Architects, in seamlessly
in with itsbuilt
Vancouver, surroundings.
the classic Scott &
A-frame
structure
stone out
quarried of locally
on sourced
Vancouver Douglas
Island. e r, cedar shakes,
2,000-square-foot and
cabin standspanoramic
towindows:
maximize three storiesviewstall and was itsintentionally
through positioned
oor-to-ceiling
Wedge and as a result,
Weart there
mountains areand majestic
Whistler180-degree
Blackcomb views of
resort the
views from the side.
Despite
seeing being
snowfall close
as to
late the
as coast,
May. ButWhistler
the winters
weather are long,
patterns often
suit
this family
spending of four
long days just ne,
onBaker as they
the skiinslopes.love nothing
In 1980s—a better
fact, Brenton than
grewhe uphas
snowboarding
enjoyed passing ononMt.
to his the
children. early
Warmer months hobby
allow the
family
can to go on hikes to nearby lakes, and any time of year they
whilebeawayfoundthesitting by the woodburning stove to comfortably
evenings.
Melanie,
A-frame an
which interior
they designer
were able by
to trade, loves
accomplish the
in retro
spite offeel
the of the
home
being
there a newlimited
are build.sidewalls,
And becausethe the pitch
home of theencourages
naturally roof means a
simple,
Whistler minimalistic
Cabin is thisinterior.
family’s e
breakperfect
from place
the of
city.respite,
Having lived
abroad
full time forin bustling
a time inVancouver
both Londonin aand1910Paris, they’re nowe settled
Craftsman.
Whistler
weekend Cabin
and is their
extended second
holidays—ahome, the place
completely they spend
original every
cabin
with
easy everything
access to thetheyoutdoors.
love: clean lines, a minimal design, and
longe steeply angledwinters.
Vancouver roo ine helps prevent snowpack during the
Flora collected
the outside in. during family hikes are put on display to bring
Coleftover
ee table is
cores an
fromo -cut
the from
home’s the home’s stonework;
foundation. Brenton its
and legs are
Melanie
foraged them from the debris of the building site.
ABOVE AND BELOW: Kitchen table was built from
timber sourced from old Vancouver warehouses. reclaimed
Stone countertop was quarried from Vancouver
Cupboards are treated marine plywood. Island.
Aden/guest
hallway ofroom.
exposed beams entices guests toward the back
 e
and A-frame’s
cubbies toentryway was
streamline completed
coming and with a
going, concrete bench
particularly when
removing ski and snowboard boots.
Soaring
feet. ceilings in the master bedroom reach a height of 22
Bunk beds in the kids’ room are handcrafted.
Plenty of storage built into various rooms on the bottom oor
solves where to put recreational gear and utilitarian items.
 e new construction
neighborhood. blends in e ortlessly with the
 A-FRAME IN BLOOM
Fire Island Pines, New York

L ush
Sumner
Fire
two-minute
means
gardens
and
Island
walk
thehashomes
surround
Roy
Pines,
from
on
New
the
the theFireA-frame
York.
beach,
Island
A
its
summer home
National
veritable
location
hereanareidealonlywarm-weather onparadise,
accessible byescapea barrier
of in
Seashore,
just a
island
boat. foris pristine
A-frame become
couple and a perfect gathering place for their extended family. the
e home
exemplary, and surrounding
however: Sumner grounds haven’
andspanRoyofhave t always been
cultivated so
their A-e
frame,
house, inside
believed andto out,
have over
beenthe built in nearly
1965, wasforty years.
purchased by
the couple
architectural in 1980.
design Its a ordable
were the twosomain price and distinctive
components intheir
their
decision to take the
summer retreat began. plunge—and the hard work on
 e previous
interior design, owners
so it had
was achosen
pleasurea fairly
for hackneyed
Sumner to approach
redesign theto
previously
chose unimaginative
to gosuitable
with Bauhaus-in space to the couple’s
uencedmidcentury liking.
modern furnishings, ey
perfectly
accent the interiors to the
with A-frame’s
an ongoing rotation oforigins.
ower ey
arrangements
space from their own gardens. A feeling of wide-open
ceilinghas been achieved
windows that bringinside the A-frame
the outside gardenswithin.the oor-to-
Atgrowth
the time
and of purchase,
poison ivy so the garden
high you area
couldn’ was
t seecovered
the in
house. scrube
whole property
asandrocks from hadnorth
the to beshore
cleared
of and Island.
Long topsoil Pines,
hauledsassafras,
in, as well
pepperidge
planted. Japanese trees, which
maples, are
blue indigenous
spruce, and to the
evergreens,area, were
while
not
built indigenous,
on a sand were added
dune, and and have
Sumner puts thrived.
it simply, e“Whatever
property iswill
grow,
gardens we’re happy
proves to
they’ve have.”
been One stroll
gracious through
hosts to the
the verdant
many
varieties
this place ofhome
plants,overowers,
the andrabbits,
years: small animalsturtles, that have called
muskrats,
foxes,
this moles,
garden, and
which a multitude
covers about of asongbirds
fth of an are
acre.commonplace
Sumner has in
devised
landscaper mostKenneth
of the outdoor
Ruzika designs
to complete andeachworksvision.
closely“Kenneth
with is
very artistic,”
come up with.” Sumner shared. “He improves upon every idea we
Now
Roy both retired
enjoy a quieter frompace.their careers
e gardens as require
doctors,aSumnerfair and of
amount
maintenance,
with some accomplished
additional help by
with Sumner
the weeding,and Roy themselves
watering, and
fertilizing.
A-frame is Simplicity
a place for remains
Sumner key
and inRoythistosummer
relax and residence;
enjoy the
time
with their family.
Handsome lounge chairs line the cedar deck. e chairs,
complex engineering, were designed by Richard Schultz. with
Rather
exactly than reach a traditional peak, this A-frame
30 feet to conform to the local building codecuts o at
requirements.
 e striking
Bromley—it replace
replaced was
the found online
original by
replace architect
which hadScott
been lost
in a 2015 re which damaged much of the A-frame.
Saarenin table.
Ceramic and bronze sculptures were made by Virginia Scotchie.
Built-in
one of side
many cabinets
updates where
done the “A”
during a sides
2002 meet the
remodel. oor were
Sumner
designed the uplighting
angles of the walls. behind the cabinets to dramatize the
Vintage steel
perfectly. and ra a bedside lamps suit the A-frame’s style
Athespacious
cross balcony,
piece of also
the “A.”used as
Pendanta guest
lamp room,
is a looks
French out
gas over
lamp
from 1890, converted to electricity.
ABOVE
invite AND
garden BELOW: Paths,
guestsproperty bridges,
to meander, and wooden
stop,theand walkways
look.from
A six-foot fence
around
deer. ethe entire
birdhouses were protects
picked up at foliage
a local craft roaming
shop;
Kenneth Ruzika fashioned their tree from driftwood logs.
 FLOATING A-FRAME
Seattle, Washington

O
the end
frame
newornhome
A-frame
of the
provides
docks
pier
stands
of
unique
with
out among
Portage
by
no
loadseofmain
even Bay,
immediate
privacyoorwith
allin Seattle,
A-frame
the othersWashington—an
neighbors,
theroom unmatched
along the
standards.
this Located
oating at
A-
beneontot ofthe
sensational
bay, with a views.
nearly panoramic vistaliving
of the looks
water. e out
Seattle
skyline,
taken the
in with yacht club,
oneissweepingand the University of Washington
survey ofthethesunlandscape. are
And on theall
because
pier even theif bay
rain is a microclimate,
pouring down on fellow can be shining
Seattleites just a mile
away.
the e oating
largest A-frame
steel was
smelting built in
operation 1968in by
the the former
state of owner
Illinois. Heof
built
music it as a music
at thea grand studio
University for his wife who was a professor of
once been pianoof inWashington.
the living room.ere is rumored to have
e newest
in.houseboats owner
A lifelonginSeattle of the
resident,oating he A-frame,
has alwaysDavid,
been is still
drawn settling
to
become available the atareatheand
end knew
of theitpier.
was quite
When rare
Davidforsawonethisto
well-kept A-frame on
sale, he purchased it immediately. its platform of ironwood decking listed for
AtGorgeous
just overcherry 1,000hardwood
square feet,oors the house
and is modest
cherry wood inkitchen
size.
cabinets bring
four-by-four–foot warmth
skylights and beauty
throughoutto the
theinteriors.
A-frame A dozen
open to the
outside
line one tosideletofin the
freshhouseboat.
air and sunshine.
e Twenty-foot-tall
sunlight re ecting o trees
the
water
bywayfrom at the
the close of
front-row day seatis beautiful,
of the hot and
tub onwatching
the deck boats
is a drift
perfect
to unwind at the end of the day.
String lights, outdoor seating,
create a festive atmosphere. hot tub, and unmatched views
 e previous homeowner installed twelve skylights
home was always ooded with natural light. to ensure the
Stacks of wood waiting in the wings along
used in the A-frame’s woodburning stove. the cedar siding to be
ABOVE
Puget AND
Sound BELOW:
glide : Yachts
right pasttraveling
the from
oating Lake Washington
A-frame. e home’sto
previous owner described its living room as “a never-ending
gallery of sailboats and powerboats and yachts and kayakers.”
Abeen
modestly sized kitchen in this unconventional
fully renovated to include modern amenities.houseboat has
Cherrywood oors and custom
pleasant sheen to the interiors. cabinets bring warmth and a
Stairs lead to the master bedroom in the loft.
 MOUNTAINTOP MODERN
Big Bear, California

O
shoreline
bene
nly
home
a fewinhours’
situatedto
surrounding
ts intheir
the
mindfamily its
that Jason
driveBernardino
San
abundant ski
from Los National
trails
freshwater
Angeles, Forest
plus
lake.
Big Bearandis is
twenty-two
It was withmiles
these of
home for of four.and Laura set out to nd a weekend
While
they on a day
discovered trip
a to
little Big Bear
A-frame in 2014,
online just
that before
hadn’ t the
been new
used year,
(or
maintained)
with in
125andfeetLaura years.
of lakefront e home
toa visit was positioned
call totheirtheown—enticing on the water,
enough for
Jason
arrived, they had to
to make
carry their two kids property.
in their When
arms they
because
the home was
at,wereandwilling so
wouldtorequire overrun arisk.with
signi cant mice. While
remodel, it wasn’
Jason t much
and Laura to look
Lake Arrowhead takea fewthe years ey
prior had
and lived
knew in an
the A-frame
appeal andin
impact
rsthand. of those soaring
And architect ceilings
as home developers and dramatic
themselves, windows
with Jason
acting
take toas lead
tackle the project and
with designer,
con dence.they had
An o what
er was it would
made
that same day, and the A-frame was theirs six weeks later.
During
itJason
entirely theunusable
design process,for the the house’s
time being. poor condition
Seven months rendered
after
inside and
was Laura’s
completely o er, construction
removed, and began.
they added e second
wings story
onto
three
growing sidesfamily.
of theInhouse
total, to make
the house it covers
sizable2,000enoughsquarefor their
feet, all
on one level.
eir
appreciatekids, now three
theA-frame.
beauty and and six, have
theto slower already learned
pacedayofoutside, to
mountaintheylifeoften in
their
wind beloved
down with a movie Able
in the spend
evenings. all Jason was able to teach
them how to snowboard their
during the summer wake sur ng is a daily activity. rst winter at the house, while
has e shoreline
a dock for that
their beckoned
boat in to
their them
own from their
backyard rst
(or visit
front now
yard, if
you ask
tomountain Laura).
spend asA-Frame, With
many weekends a third child
as can on
possible the way, the
inoftheir family
modernand intends
recharge together. where they let go everything
Rug andcrossbeam.
interior chairs are vintage.
Noguchi Alamp
movieis screen
on a is hidden
pulley in which
system the rst
raises
placed the
in lamp
the when
oor the
under screen
the sofacomes
for andown; a
optimal subwoofer
movie- was
watching experience.
Ceilings
built-in in the
walnut A-frame
shelf to reach
add 28 feet.
visual e rear
interest, as of
the the sofa
sofa is ahas a
centerpiece in the room.
Kitchen
veining. countertop
e is
fabricatorcalacatta
had to marble,
work with known for
absolute its distinctive
precision to
ensure the seams of the waterfall aligned.
A wall of windows provides views of the yard and lake beyond.
Macramé wall textile by
above a vintage bar cart. designer Kelly Sørensen Hansen hangs
Custom-made
disappear whenpocket
not indoors
use. provide
Macramé privacy
in when
master needed,
bedroom and
by
designer
Jason Emily Katz, who created this piece using driftwood
by CaraandLevine.
Laura found while on a hike in Big Sur, CA. Wall art is
Entryway wallpaper is designed by Laura.
ABOVE
cabinetsAND BELOW:
throughout Brushed
the homebrass
add a xtures
warm and walnut
contrast to modern
white.
house, Bunk bedswith
complete werecustom
customcupbuiltholders
into theinframing
case the ofkidsthewant
a sip of water during the night.
Sleek modern deck chairs ornament the home’s entry.
 e house
stairs leadisdirectly
positioned
to theatlake,
the end
andofthea cul-de-sac;
family’s boatthedock.
grand
Chaise lounge chairs provide a picture-perfect spot to recline.
 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
ank and
Jason you toLaura
the A-frame
Odell; homeowners:
Dan Birman; DougMattHarris
and Orson
and Frisbie;
Bill Van
Parys;
Curtis Sumner
and Susan Freeman
Popp; and
Astrid Roy
andYeager;
Brian David
Insieme;McCallum;
Christine
Boyer and Antonie
Chowdhury; Desanka Scholtz;
FasiskaAnna
and Margaret
Ryan and Paul
Mossé; SrijonO’Neil and
Andrew
Cotter Loesel;
and David Julia Brabec
Lipchik; and
Olive David
Meyer; Pickman;
Sarah Reid Savannah
and Matthew
Latkiewicz;
diChapman; ChiaraPapazian
Scianni; Brenton
Edgar and Ron andGajar;Michelle
FreddieLenzi;
Friedler
Jocelynand eresa
Veronique Lievre; and
and Melanie
Kris Brown;
Roni—thank Heinz
you forLegler
your and
generosity,
letting
stories. me isintoproject
your homes,
has madefeeding
me me, andthatsharing
realize only your
interesting
people live in A-frames.
Scott Bromley and Scott & Scott Architects for
beautiful spaces, and for connecting us with your clients. designing
Katie Killebrew
assembling this of Gibbs
book, Smith
and for all
especially your
for help
coming editing
to us and
with this
idea and having the con
though we’d never done one before.dence to trust us with a book, even
James
was Morley
away and and
takingNichole
such Silva
good for
careholding
of the down the
photographs fort while
when I I
got back.
Ceri Marsh,andEsme,
absences and Julian
graciously for putting
accepting up and
T-shirts withsnow
my repeated
globes as
compensation.
And
every especially
photoYour Erika
shoot.e ortsJacobs
Without for
you, helping research,
this bookmade plan, and
wouldit anotpleasure
have to edit
happened. and
work on and a book I’m very proud of.enthusiasm
 e interior of this classic A-frame vacation rental in Far
Meadow, Yosemite, California, is rustic and simply modern.

Ben
for Rahn
more has
than been
twentyphotographing
years. He architecture
founded A-Frame and
in interiors
2003 out of
aphotographic
desire to combine
eye. his love
Since then,ofhisdesign
work with
has hisbeenkeenrecognized
internationally
publications. and
When has
he appeared
isn’t travelingin a variety
for work, of
Ben splits his
time between Brooklyn and Toronto.