North Carolina’s Research Triangle is a treasure trove of Midcentury Modern homes, and local architectural enthusiasts are eager to preserve these classic American gems. But the faded gabled roof ranch house seated on a half-acre in Raleigh’s Hampton Hill neighborhood hardly sparkled when it came up for sale in 2014. The overgrown exterior and poorly executed addition of a sunroom left an underwhelming first impression, and a ’70s-era interior renovation resulted in a reconfigured floor plan that was difficult to navigate. Having long dreamed of a midcentury abode to house his collection of modernist furniture, however, Joseph Amory eagerly made an offer.
“There are a lot of these houses here, and they’re getting destroyed,” says Joseph, who moved to the area after finishing a residency in veterinary radiology. “People tear them down and build a McMansion. We wanted to save one.”
Working with award-winning design firm In Situ Studios, Joseph brought the 3400-square-foot home back to its former glory inside and out over the course of two years. A spacious open floor plan on both levels, skylights above the entry and master bath, and new Jeld-win windows make the house feel light and airy. A slatted guard rail on the stairs and the use of frosted glass to create partitions in the master bath and basement bedroom let light flow freely, while low-profile modernist furnishings create a refined, uncluttered living space.
Outside, the sloping roof was extended over a carport and deep single-car garage that replaced the sunroom. Exterior flourishes of a floating wrap-around deck, white pavers, AstroTurf patio and bold yellow front door are more reminiscent of Palm Springs than suburbs in the Southeast.
“I wanted to bring some of those cool California styles here,” says Joseph. Thanks to his vision and persistence, this Carolina midcentury home now shines once again.
