In California’s Redwood City, a rare 1972 Prairie School residence — originally designed by Midwest architect Leo Tonetti — received a striking glass extension by Red Dot Studio. Affectionally called Jewel Box, this ethereal glass addition serves both practical and aesthetic purposes for its owners who, hailing from England and Greece, frequently welcome personal and professional guests into their home.
As an addition to historic Prairie School architecture, the studio sought to find a thoughtful balance between old and new. Modern elements were introduced in the form of a new stair bay with a glass roof, steel stairs that filtered lighting to the lower floors, and a new slot skylight that illuminated the extensive art collection on the walls.
Extraneous brick columns were removed and the living room was extended to create flowing spaces that seamlessly connected with the landscape. Though modest in size, the project lives up to its name as a little jewel: small, but delivering maximum impact through careful consideration of light, space, and views. More projects by Red Dot Studio here.
Photography © Henry Gao