Alternately called “The Trapezoid House,” Cassilhaus comprises three trapezoidal volumes across a very steep and densely forested site with views of Duke University Forest and New Hope Creek. The design of the house followed a rigorous program-driven architectural process with an unusual thesis—beyond their basic living requirements, the art and design loving owners wanted to host an artist residency and art gallery on site.

Design concept and solution:
The three central program elements for the project were two independent living areas—a 3,000-square-foot main house and a completely self-contained 1,000-square-foot guest house/artist studio—as well as dedicated gallery and storage spaces to house an extensive photography collection.