5311 Rose Street

Located in the heart of Rice Military, this architect’s own home maximizes the unique opportunities of a challenging lot. The property measures just 65 feet wide by 45 feet deep, and fronts a public park with community garden. The majority of glazing faces North, allowing soft light and views of the park from each room. With a modest interior of 3275 SF, the efficient layout includes 3 dedicated bedrooms, a flexible office/guest suite with separate entrance, double-height living/dining room, and playroom. The master suite has a ‘flex’ room that can be opened to either the living room or bedroom. The outdoors is an integral part of the design through an additional 1800 SF of space including a covered porch, two balconies, and two roof decks. Industrial modern in style, the brick and metal home pays homage to the area’s warehouse roots and the tin-house movement birthplace. Polished concrete provides a low-maintenance flooring choice, and contrasts with the textured brick that wraps into the interior. Soft leather panels create the staircase enclosure, and other natural textures like wool carpet and wall-mounted foliage make the home feel cozy. High-end European cabinets and lighting feel sleek, while the site-built walnut millwork and barn doors offer warmth. Permeable paving allows rainwater to soak through the driveway and sidewalk, while rain chains direct run-off from the balconies to the potted plants below. The pergola structures on the roof decks will support translucent solar panels, providing shade and over 1/3 of the energy the house requires.