2275 Harcourt Drive (1982)

The 2275 Harcourt Drive house, completed in 1981, is sensitive land reuse at its best. It preserves trees and shrubs from the formal garden of the Floyd-Mulally estate that had earlier occupied the lot in a new, contemporary context. For 2 years architect Fred Holman worked with the current (also first) owners to design a home that would serve as both workplace and tranquil rest spot for a busy couple with grown children.

One-floor living, energy efficiency and low maintenance to free the owners to pursue their careers and hobbies were essential. Rough-sawn, stained cedar siding and wide roof overhangs without gutters were chosen to blend this new structure with its older neighbors and wooded surroundings.

The interior features a two-storied living room with imposing Tennessee corkstone fireplace and hearth, workspace loft over the two-storied master bedroom, uncovered windows, 4 skylights and a greenhouse bay in the primary living area. Ohio materials include Geauga County white ash floors and railing, Briarcliff quarry stone for porch and patio and Attica floor tiles.

The purposeful and liberal use of glass throughout gives the sense of living in a private shelter in the woods, in close contact with plants, trees, birds and the weather in all seasons. Builder Roman Yoder supervised construction of this delightful, artistic alcove of nature at the top of Cedar Hill.