The Sylvio Estate - Project Brief

Residing in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountain Range of North Carolina, this melodious estate overlooks a natural park reserve. The Sylvio’s are a unique and eclectic family searching for a permanent residence to support Mr. and Mrs. Sylvio, Mrs. Sylvio’s mother as well as space for their three adult children to visit and bring the grandchildren. As the Sylvio’s are devout Muslims, a Musallah should be seamlessly integrated into the spatial layout so to allow them to pray and practice their faith.

Project Requirements

Universal / Accessible Design

The space for Mrs. Sylvio’s mother should include a bedroom/bathroom suite, and be accommodating for her needs, following principles of universal and accessible design. It should also include a personal exterior entrance as well as access to the rest of the house.

Master Spa

As per request, the couple wishes to upgrade to a master spa bathroom to anticipate for future spa-therapy and general relaxation.

Large Kitchen

As this is to be a permanent residence for the family, Mrs. Sylvio requested a large kitchen supporting multiple users at the same time. It is imperative to remember Islamic celebrations, which could require large feasts, when planning the kitchen layout.

Studio Space

Mrs. Sylvio is a practicing artist and should have a space separate from the house to accommodate for her creativity. This space should have abundant access to natural lighting as well as a gallery space for her to display her art.

Home Owners Association

This estate belongs to a Home Owners Association district, and therefore all exterior design choices, such as landscaping and roof angles, should be approved by the HOA board prior to finalization of documents. Any changes should also be sent for approval.

NKBA Kitchen and Bath

NKBA Kitchen and Bath standards should be heavily enforced in the planning of the kitchen and bathrooms.

Purpose

The goal is not simply to create a home for a family to enjoy, but rather establish an identity, an attachment to the joy that life can bring when surrounded by those we love

Design as a Concept…

A Light of Song

a religion of peace

Devoted to Islam, the Sylvio family practice a religion of peace, which is a synonym for harmony.

Therefore, the concept A Light of Song, applies to the family’s faith.

forming music into architecture

Through song and melody, this is home is set up to narrate the atmospheric and emotional qualities of the Sylvio family.

an emotional experience

In life, we tend to create for ourselves a sanctuary for peace. May it manifest within ourselves, or within our creations. Our lives should harmonize with the sanctuaries and create a resounding beauty.