Elkins Addition from Ryan Thewes
January 22, 2008 by Jennifer Chait
Filed under Home & Living
Ryan Thewes is a newer name on the design scene having recently set up his own practice in Nashville. I doubt he’ll stay a newer name for long though. His background, even just as a student of design, is already impressive. He’s been lucky enough to study and work with some amazing architects such as Don Erickson, Robert Green, and Bart Prince.
Plus he’s already completed and designed some stellar work. Some of it nicely offbeat – but still livable. If you recall, this is my favorite sort of offbeat structure, “Zany and livable.”
Thewes sent me some info on a structure he built, the Elkins Addition. This addition is a bathroom and studio built onto the back of an already existing home in Nashville. It’s a super slick studio, I think. It’s got a very zig-zag sort of charm, as you can see…
Nice, right? I really like the contrasting color shades. At first it seemed a little off – but, the more I look at it, the more I like it. It works.
Everywhere you look a new line…
I saved the best for last. It’s killer at night.
How cool is this addition in the night? Well, maybe not cool if you’re the next door neighbors. But neighbors aside it’s great. Plus, you know, the light almost seems contained by the building. It doesn’t look like it spreads far – which I know makes no sense. I only slept three hours last night, that’s the best sense I can make.
Why not visit Ryan Thewes’ site; he’s got some nicely unique designs to ponder. I especially recommend the Octagon House, not offbeat but very well-done minimalist style, or the Bow House, which I’m thinking kids would love to play under.
[Much thanks to Ryan Thewes for the photos]
Even though I let Ryan win at poker last night, the article is still impressive. Yes, the addition does speak for itself, but more important is the cost associated with its construction. Good design should be responsible building cost and I think this is both.
Joe, funny you “let” him win huh, now, why would you do that…
We talk about that a lot here – mistakes with planning, what it can cost you, etc. It’s fine to have beautiful plans, if you can’t pull it off smartly though, well, it’s a problem. So, did you design the mod subdivision homes in the link? I like them. I especially like their size – how they build up. Nice work to whomever did plan them.
Thanks for stopping by
As a resident of the neighborhood, I wnat to put in my two cents. The night view is stunning! I love it. The day view is also very appealing. This structure lifts my soul and reminds me that there is beauty in the world. I am thrilled that he built on our block. If I had any money to speak of I would beg him to design a house for me. Ryan Thewes is supremely gifted.
So the light is ok with the neighbors
That’s good to know. I always feel lucky when I live near beautiful architecture too. And sort of down when I don’t – like right now – hence I’m moving. I think Ryan is gifted too, his lines are great – I bet we see more from him in the future. Thanks for chiming in happy neighbor.