722 Ash Street House by Studio 804
Located in the charming North Lawrence neighborhood in Kansas, 722 Ash Street House is a stunning example of minimalist design. Designed by Studio 804, this house is a modern take on the timeless vernacular of Midwestern farmsteads. With a 1500 sf primary house and a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling, this property is perfect for extended family members or as an income property.
About 722 Ash Street House
722 Ash Street House: A Blend of Modern and Timeless Vernacular Qualities
The 722 Ash Street House is a unique architectural marvel that comprises a 1500 square feet primary house with a contiguous 500 square feet accessory dwelling. The project is located in the vibrant North Lawrence community, which is famous for its quality soil, large trees, and random size parcels. The rear property line of the house is adjacent to the nine-mile-long Lawrence levee trail along the north bank of the Kansas River.
The Character of North Lawrence
North Lawrence is known for its curbless streets and random-sized parcels, which break into larger farms further from the urban center. It represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. Despite being close to Lawrence’s vibrant downtown, North Lawrence residents maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban.
The Timeless Vernacular Qualities of the House
The design of the 722 Ash Street House was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. The house is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. One unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside.
Sustainability and Low Energy Use
The 722 Ash Street House incorporates technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south-facing gable, and the super-insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceed the standards. The house is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified, continuing Studio 804’s long-standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community.
In summary, the 722 Ash Street House is a beautiful blend of modern design and timeless vernacular qualities. Its unique features, such as the Accessory Dwelling Unit and sustainability measures, make it an exemplary model for modern, sustainable living. Its location in the vibrant community of North Lawrence, adjacent to the Lawrence levee trail, makes it an ideal choice for people who want to enjoy the benefits of urban living while maintaining their independence.
Photography by Corey Gaffer – Gaffer Photography
- by Matt Watts
