"Serendip" House

Champaign, Illinois

This economical 3300 SF residence is shaped and sited to deflect northerly winter winds and open to the expansive view to the south. This side features a deep overhang to shade the interior in the summer. but absorb south light in the winter. Rooms are located in an east-west linear sequence to allow cross ventilation throughout and to create a series of internal zones adaptable to guests or family use. The central feature is a 17-foot high living room overlooked by two offices for the faculty clients and a bridge on the second floor. Oak is used throughout the first floor public spaces and stairs, bouncing warm light on to the surrounding walls and ceilings. The walls are painted in semi-gloss white, light and medium gray, allowing the color mood of the interior to change with the atmospheric conditions outside.

The result is a light-filled sanctuary, a refuge for both family life and professional work.