Aldergate
LOCATION
Forest Hills, Michigan
PROJECT SIZE
5,917 sq. ft.
Details
These clients approached Visbeen Architects to bring their dream home to life, envisioning an estate-like retreat for their blended family. Built in 2012, the design was a departure from the open floor plans of the time, crafted to reflect the family’s lifestyle needs. The formality of the spatial sequence is intentional and mirrors the approach from the street. Set back on a generous property, the home is somewhat secluded from neighbors. The stone façade was designed to achieve a sense of permanence through natural stone, and the circular drive, porte-cochere, and arcade-inspired entrance create depth, privacy, and elegance.
The arched entrance of the porte-cochere insulates the home’s private spaces from the more public ones. Behind the covered entrance is a five-car garage and family entry, while the circular drive leading to the front door creates an ideal welcome for guests. The clients wanted the home to be sophisticated. They envisioned a beautiful estate in an equally striking landscape, where classical architecture harkens back to the historic English countryside. Steeply pitched rooflines, a cupola, a stone exterior, rich millwork, interior columns, and archways all add to the feeling of Old World elegance.
“The client wanted the garage doors hidden from the front entrance to maintain the historic feeling of the design. The question was how to incorporate a spacious garage without spoiling the exterior elevation. Our solution was to split the garages with a counter-curve and create a private motor court.”
- Wayne Visbeen, Founder & Principal
