{"id":17161,"date":"2023-11-05T04:24:01","date_gmt":"2023-11-05T03:24:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.architecturemaker.com\/?p=17161"},"modified":"2023-11-05T04:24:01","modified_gmt":"2023-11-05T03:24:01","slug":"whered-you-go-bernadette-architecture","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.architecturemaker.com\/whered-you-go-bernadette-architecture\/","title":{"rendered":"Where’d You Go Bernadette Architecture"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Background Information<\/h2>\n

“Where’d You Go, Bernadette,” a best-selling novel by Maria Semple, has recently been released as a major motion picture starring Cate Blanchett. The movie follows the journey of an agoraphobic, creatively talented architect and her daughter as they attempt to travel to Antarctica to find Bernadette after her sudden disappearance. Kicking off in Seattle, the movie is set against a backdrop of some of the City’s most iconic landmarks. Of special note is the modernist home designed by Bernadette Fox, which happens to be the family’s residence in the movie.
\nThe contemporary Seattle house was designed by award-winning Canadian architect, James Cutler. Cutler wanted to capture the themes of the book, which is set in Seattle’s Madrona neighborhood, and create something as cutting-edge and modern as Bernadette Fox herself. Since Bernadette is a reclusive genius with a creative flair, Cutler strived to reflect her character in the house’s design including the liberal use of unconventional materials and colors that hint at a fun, even manic personality.<\/p>\n

Notable Features<\/h2>\n

The unique building exhibits spectacular romanesque archways, balconies and glass windows. It uses a variety of materials such as cedar shakes, cinder blocks, steel, zinc and concrete for its construction. Its color palette with rust, turquoise and bold magenta also make it stand out among other Seattle homes. The design also includes hideaways for “moments of escape”—a multipurpose corner by the stairs that includes a built-in bench, a glass-walled office and a grotto-like pool and patio.
\nThe construction of the house was made possible by the team at Fisher Architecture and the contractors at Hammer & Hand. The house was built in an existing space, instead of on an open lot, which added an extra layer of complexity to the project. With the help of a talented team of architects, designers, and craftsmen, the house became a reality within a short span of 2 months.<\/p>\n

Outer Spatial Environment<\/h2>\n

The design of Bernadette Fox’s house not only had to accommodate a movie set on the inside, but also create a distinctive visual and experiential environment for film viewers on the outside. To that effect, the exterior walls have been painted in vibrant colors to give the house a unique appearance. In addition, the archways and balconies, which reflect Seattle’s traditional Victorian architecture, create a dynamic frame for the building.
\nThe landscaping of the home is also unique, with curves, colors and textures that all add to the home’s modernist vibe. The garden and pathways around the house have been thoughtfully designed to create a sense of loneliness and seclusion that fits the movie’s themes of loss and self-reflection.<\/p>\n

Green Architecture<\/h2>\n

The house was designed to be as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible given the timeline and budget constraints. To that effect, the Fisher and Hammer & Hand team employed recycled, low VOC and non-toxic building materials. The roof also had to be designed as an ‘urban oasis’ with trees, gardens and planters taking full advantage of Seattle’s mild climate.
\nAlthough the house is not LEED certified, the design and materials used are compliant to local standards, and the house features a highly efficient HVAC system to keep energy costs down. Additionally, the house is fitted with solar panels and the generous use of glass and insulation allows for the house to be energy-neutral and save on energy costs.<\/p>\n

Functional Design<\/h2>\n