In Birmingham, Michigan, a neighborhood in the northern suburbs of Detroit, a distinctive residence redefines the relationship between architecture, privacy and visibility. Designed by Hannah Schultzthe Home for a collector The project is aimed at a collector with a passion for rare Porsches and fine bourbon, seamlessly integrating his prized possessions into the fabric of everyday life.
Instead of conforming to the conventional approach of a monolithic suburban house, the architects fragmented the structure into a series of interconnected volumes, arranged symmetrically around a central courtyard. This design choice not only mitigates the visual dominance of a single large building, but also encourages a dynamic interplay between interior and exterior spaces. The courtyard itself acts as a unique focal point, where cars and social spaces coexist in a fluid, open environment.
A key departure from traditional suburban design is the placement of garages. Rather than being out of sight, they are an integral part of the yard, bringing the car collection into direct dialogue with the home’s living spaces. This deliberate fusion of functionality and aesthetics challenges conventional notions of how vehicles and living spaces interact, emphasizing the customer’s appreciation of automotive design.
Materiality plays a decisive role in shaping the character of the house. The structure is surrounded by insulated precast concrete panels – an industrial material choice usually associated with large-scale commercial buildings. Where sections of this concrete shell have been removed, steel cladding creates a warm contrast, adding depth and texture. Inside, a carefully curated palette of blackened steel, polished concrete, unpainted plaster and prefab wood enhances the balance between refined luxury and raw utility.
Sustainability is woven into the project through strategic planning and technological integration. A high-performance building envelope, triple-glazed windows and a geothermal heating and cooling system work together to improve energy efficiency, ensuring the home is both environmentally conscious and visually stunning.
Beyond its architectural achievements, the house acts as a stage for the client’s curated collection. The whiskey display, hidden behind a steel-clad wall, emerges via motorized panels, offering a dramatic reveal when desired. This element of surprise adds functionality and drama, allowing valuables to remain hidden or displayed at the owner’s discretion.
Inside, a monochromatic color palette and scale details respond to the client’s wishes to showcase their favorite objects, including cars, curated furniture and artwork, and an extensive whiskey collection. Unexpected details such as a floating bridge connecting the upper volumes and a hanging Jim Zivic hammock in the master suite add to the minimalist interior.
Photo by Michael Moran.
Photo styling by Carin Scheve.
