Steel, Concrete, and Stone Home with Central Courtyard

When an architect is allowed the freedom to create a space that he knows will work for this clients, that level of trust comes through in the final design. Such was the case in this elegant modern home from architect Elias Rizo, who has indicated "thorough communication" and "complete trust" were essential in completing this home. The resulting structure is careful and calming, making every effort to ensure comfort and preserve privacy as well as the illusion of isolation, even in a neighborhood that sets houses close to one another.

Beginning with a rear view of the home, we can see the simplicity of the chosen steel, glass, wood, concrete, and stone materials used throughout the construction. The form of the home is sleek, not calling attention to itself, almost daring you to guess what could be inside. 

The entry into the house is simple but deliberate. A large, heavy door separates the home from the street in its entirety, but even crossing this first threshold does not give access to the home. Instead, visitors must walk along the exterior of the building, along a pathway that flanks the interior pond, to finally reach the front door, which is actually closer to the back of the house. Even the garage has a clandestine element to it, keep cars hidden not only from the street, but from all interior angles as well.