Client Brief:
The client asked us to design a home as a surprise for his wife. After false starts with other designers, he wanted a two-story family house that could grow with three young children and also include a wheelchair-accessible guest house for his parents. The design needed to support multigenerational living while creating spaces for both privacy and connection.
Location:
The site is in Phoenix’s Arcadia neighborhood, where the family had outgrown their original ranch house. The existing pool was preserved, shaping the layout of the new design.
Design Solution:
The house is organized in two stacked volumes: a black-brick first floor and a white-stucco second floor. Large glass doors open the ground level to both front and back yards, connecting directly to the pool and outdoor spaces. Wood accents highlight key thresholds, including the entry and sliding doors.
The first floor holds the main living spaces, primary suite, guest bedroom, and gym. The second floor contains the children’s bedrooms, a den, and study areas. Circulation is straightforward and functional, with clear separation between shared and private areas.
The detached guest house sits on the east side of the backyard. Fully wheelchair-accessible, it creates a private courtyard with the pool while giving grandparents independence within the family property.
Result:
Charmed is a multigenerational home designed for daily life and long-term use. It supports the family’s routines, offers independence to grandparents, and creates outdoor connections across the entire property.
