Hutson Residence
Monticello, Illinois

The dramatic site for this residence is perched on a bluff overlooking a bend in the Sangamon River. While part of a residential subdivision, the site is completely wooded and has natural separation on two sides owing to the river and a small tributary.

The design breaks the house into three main components, one each for living functions, sleeping functions and the garage. All are connected by secondary forms housing support spaces. The component approach serves to break the somewhat large, primarily single-story house down into a more woodland scale, nestling into the trees, and affording spectacular views and natural light from every space.

The compound of structures sits atop a limestone capped masonry podium and the natural cedar materials and color were selected to blend into the forest.