Even the most devoted husband and father has to run away now and then. Luckily for Eric Fier, he doesn't have to go too far. The Atlanta psychologist has had a small, modern backyard home built behind his family home in Toco Hills, his own version of a "den" where he can retreat. But with its striking architecture, vaulted ceilings and large windows, the house is anything but a cave. A place that looks both modern and connected to nature. The garden house was designed by architect Bryan Russell of Dencity and the landscaping is designed by Nick Harrell of Core Landscape Group.
The exterior walls are clad in cypress wood, burned using a traditional Japanese technique. The planks are heated with a blowtorch until they turn black, then polished with a wire brush to remove the charred parts. This creates a beautiful, two-tone surface that is also weather-resistant. There are gaps between the wooden floorboards and the building so that no moisture or heat can penetrate into the house. Large roofs protect the terraces around the house from rain and views from neighboring houses. The sunny front porch faces the main house, while the shaded rear patio is more private and faces a small forest of pine, birch and evergreen trees. For a completely different experience, Fier climbs a ladderRoof terracewhere he can read or relax.
As an oasis of calm
The 40 square meter interior is divided into three zones – a relaxation room, a home office and an entertainment area. Since the studio does not have plumbing, it is classified as an additional structure and building permits are easier to obtain. Windows surround the relaxation room where Mr. Fier can read or meditate. His sons know not to go in unless invited and his wife Nicole is equally respectful. Maple cabinets line the wall. A desk top made of cast concrete anchors theworkplaceand is reminiscent of the concrete floors. Architect Russell limits the material palette so the small space doesn't feel crowded.
Hanging chair for the back patio
Ladder leading to the roof terrace
Covered front patio
Beautiful landscaping
Memorial to his daughter, who died of Tay-Sachs disease
