The Ross Residence: A Collaboration in Wood
The innovative palette of materials of unusual pairings and distinctive stylings found in the Ross residence are the result of close collaboration between the architect and the homeowners. Rick and Robyn worked closely with Carol during the design and specification phases, looking at many wood and material combinations.
"There are six, seven or eight different woods throughout the house, and they all blend together in interesting ways," notes Rick. "We spent many hours putting samples of the woods together to see how they played off each other, how they contrasted. It was a fascinating process. After nine years, we still love it. It's functional, yet striking and beautiful."
"Touches of wood add warmth and flair to a home, and bring nature into the viewplane," Carol adds.
As an architect, she says it's important to work closely with owners, to understand their needs and incorporate their ideas, their dreams. "Rick and Robyn wanted a timeless home that is sophisticated, yet warm and welcoming. My goal was not to create my masterpiece, but to create their masterpiece."
Carol Cozen Cozen Architects + Lighting carol@cozenarchitecture.com 310.373.7001
Frequently asked questions
How many different wood species are used in the Ross residence?+
The home features six, seven, or eight different woods throughout, all blended together in contrasting and complementary ways.
How did the architect and homeowners collaborate on material selection?+
Rick and Robyn worked closely with architect Carol during the design and specification phases, spending many hours putting wood samples together to see how they played off each other and contrasted.
Why incorporate multiple wood species into a home's design?+
According to architect Carol Cozen, touches of wood add warmth and flair to a home and bring nature into the viewplane, creating a space that is functional yet striking and beautiful.
What design goals did the homeowners have for the Ross residence?+
Rick and Robyn wanted a timeless home that is sophisticated, yet warm and welcoming.
What is Carol Cozen's philosophy when working with residential clients?+
Carol believes it's important to work closely with owners to understand their needs and incorporate their ideas and dreams. Her goal is not to create her own masterpiece, but to create the homeowners' masterpiece.
How have the homeowners felt about the design years after completion?+
After nine years, Rick and Robyn still love the home, describing it as functional yet striking and beautiful.