Bradham Proscenium

Savoy, Illinois

The house for this exterior project has a west facing vista across an agricultural landscape. The client requested an outdoor space that could be used equally for entertaining and for quiet contemplation; a space to view the sunset and also to mitigate the harsh midday sun.

The design features a series of layers that enhance the connections between living spaces and the landscape beyond. The critical first decision was to remove a portion of the enclosing fence that aligns with the existing bay window, creating an east-west axial center to the new composition. The deck area is bounded by the house interior and a symmetrically framed proscenium that aligns with the axis. Pergolas overhead shade a conversation area at the south end (stage left) and a dining area at the north end (stage right). The open center area steps down into the garden.

From the deck one can experience the garden and the theatrics of the western sky. Conversely, from the lawn one can enjoy a staged performance.