Starting with Wright's 'future wing' site plan, our philosophy was to create an addition that is consistent with the design logic and distinctive characteristics of the Olfelt House and takes a position of deference to the original structure. Wright’s proposed future wing is noncompliant with building setback requirements; we have adjusted the location to meet current zoning code and to take advantage of the existing topography. The wooded hillside ensures that the addition is low profile and generally screened from view, and that the iconic perspective of the original house remains intact. The point of connection between the existing bedroom wing and the new addition is small, particularly compared to Wright's sketch, minimizing disruption to the house and roof lines, and making the changes easily reversible in the future.
The impetus for the addition and the minimal interior renovations is to address the meagre space allocated to the master bedroom, to expand the kitchen to accommodate a large multi-generation family, and to ensure that the home be comfortable, accessible, and safe for aging in place and meeting the needs of the disabled. The building as a whole will be brought up to current energy code standards and all structural issues will be addressed. The general contractor has recently worked on the restoration of a Wright home in Minnesota and is well versed in the particular detailing, integrated millwork, and idiosyncratic mechanical and structural systems intrinsic to Wright's buildings.