Home Grown
“We accomplished harmony between
the house and landscape by carefully
considering the views and precisely
orchestrating circulation to and from
the house,” says Laurie. “The native
landscape in Linville is, in my biased
opinion, one of the most beautiful in the
world. Our plan was to create gardens
that do not distract from this unique
landscape, but rather enhance it.”
Collaborating with the architecture
and interior design firm of Meyer
Greeson Paullin Benson, the cottage
was gutted, with additions including
a new master bath, enlarged master
bedroom, new kitchen, family room,
utility area, garage and guest suite.
Hardscapes—including terraces,
walls and steps—were also added.
Located on top of a knoll and nestled
into a small mountain, the landscape
is surrounded with natural, undeveloped forest well beyond the property
lines. But the house sat awkwardly on
the space; while oriented to take in the
majestic views, the land sloped at a
dramatic 45-degree angle.
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The first step was to grade the property. The family used this as an organizing tool, and it was arguably the
most crucial and transformative part of
the entire renovation.
This phase started with loads of soil
to level out the house. Dump trucks
unloaded at both the front and rear of
the house, creating a consistent platform
and reducing the gradient to a slight
slope. It also generated the first glimpse
of balance from the house outward.
During this time another important
change was addressed—developing
level parking areas. Common for high
country homes, there was no on-street
parking. Having plenty of discreet
parking that is accessible, flows well
and does not block the views was
essential, especially given Laurie’s
parents’ love of entertaining.
The cottage is a typical 1950s-era
H-plan layout. A grass terrace was
installed to provide a better entry
experience, but it also visually elevates
the front of the cottage.