Cozy Contemporary Cottage for an Artist in the Berkshire Mountains

Burr and McCallum Architects have a portfolio of interesting projects, including this western Massachusetts cozy contemporary cottage.

I like the exterior of this home – the shapes and details are traditional, but they’re put together in a contemporary way. Instead of the strict symmetry you see in most Traditional homes, this is asymmetrical, but balanced. The colors are almost exactly the colors of the forested mountains, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the unusual rough-hewn granite columns came from a local quarry.

Speaking of forested mountains – you can’t beat this view from the back patio!

Those mountain views are certainly what the Architects had in mind when they designed these fantastic windows in the living/dining/kitchen area! The contemporary character of the house is evident here in the steel roof trusses and the simple, uncluttered interior.

Here’s the kitchen end of the main room – the bookcase does double-duty as a screen for the kitchen sink. The contemporary simplicity of the design shows in the clean lines of the cabinets and built-ins.

Just off the main living area, the ceiling is dropped a bit for a more private study/TV room. It would be tough to focus on work here, with that amazing view just over your shoulder!

The hall leading to the bedrooms is more private, with a half-height shiplap wainscot showing the way. The stairs use cable-rail instead of balusters, a more contemporary look and a very low-maintenance detail.