cadence, the end of a phrase
arch373 - architectural design + the landscape, fall 2017allerton state park, il
prof. david emmons

in a piece of music, phrases connect to each other, moving the music forward. the dynamics, tempo, or articulation can all change to delineate the end of each phrase. this idea of phrasing inspired the formal design as well as the profile of the building. cantilevered out into the meadow, this artists’ retreat at allerton park provides inspiring views. additionally, the cross-section of the topography is reflected in the roof line leaving the impression of a dynamic change, a crescendo, marking the end of the phrase, the musical cadence.


a central area, defined by the linear path from the ramp to the stairs, connects the spaces in two different directions. the large window at the back of the common area ties the front of the house with the back through the main linear path. in addition, the main interior spaces do not share walls with each other, but use this common area to connect to each other. this separation encourages movement and a full use of space.

