Marshall Artists’ Residence
Location: Marshall, NC
Type: New Construction
Marshall Artists’ Residence
Our clients, an artist and a musician/contractor, approached us after purchasing a mountain property just outside of Marshall, NC. Their goal was to design and build a beautiful but affordable home, studio, and artists’ cabins that would foster creativity, personal growth, and artistic exploration. Working with an owner-builder made the design process uniquely collaborative.
We first developed a conceptual master plan for the property to minimize land disturbance for buildings, trails, and vehicles, and maintain as much existing meadow and forest as possible. Steep slopes, access points, privacy, and balancing scenic views with solar orientation were challenges that informed the specific locations of the structures.
The 2,600 square foot home is inspired by the local farm building vernacular. A long shed roof takes a cost effective, utilitarian approach where the roof plane rises along the volume of the house from the private end towards the more public living spaces. This form reinforces the concept of ‘Refuge and Prospect’ – where the bedrooms are a place of protected refuge and the living space and porch are an outward looking prospect.
Several bump outs break up the simple form of the house and serve dual purposes: added functionality in minimal square footage, and moments for our creative clients to design custom built-in furniture. An extra-long glass bump out in the living space has a bench for dining and extends out for overflow seating when entertaining.
The home’s interior is a thoughtful and true reflection of the artist-owner’s talents. Whimsical paintings adorn the walls and built-in cabinets display newly made art and interesting found objects. Some of the furniture was even built from trees that once stood in the exact location.
Years later, the project continues to unfold and evolve. The owners have since built a separate creative workshop and recording studio and have plans to add artist cabins as originally intended. As Leonardo da Vinci once said, “Art is never finished…”
