Rudy Polwin Architects

Fayston, VT

Located atop the Stowe Pinnacle this building site has the potential to capture some extraordinary views of Mt. Mansfield and the Stowe Mountain Resort.

Our proposal capitalizes on this potential; by locating the main living spaces on the second level, views are achieved and experienced in the most important spaces. In an effort to further support these "high value" spaces and direct funds to where they matter most, the foundation was designed to be minimal and limit expensive site work and excavation.

Waterbury, VT

Located near Sugarbush Ski Mountain, this condo bathroom renovation was designed with walnut cabinetry, raised slightly above the floor to provide an open, more spacious feel. As this condo unit is used as a rental property, the design aimed to provide order, and material choices to provide durability.

As evident by the different renderings pictured, multiple design ideas were generated when considering an appropriate solution. The bathroom as complete, reflects a combination of the most successful schemes.

Stowe, VT

The main goal of the project was to transform this small-disjointed kitchen into an aesthetically pleasing more cohesive environment with efficient workspaces and a larger feel. In order to maximize the potential of the space, efficient storage solutions have been proposed around the perimeter of the room to provide open circulation through the center.

The cabinetry is constructed from locally sourced Vermont cherry and is designed as unified furniture elements, rather than a series of boxes lined in a row. The rich warmth and a higher degree of detail delivers an element that does not overpower the space, but provides a feature that is comfortable to the touch and enhances intimacy.

In addition to the final project photos, the original layout, a photo of the exiting kitchen, and the proposed layout are pictured below.

RPA was responsible for both the design and construction of the project.

Bed with Nightstands
Walk-in Closet
Bathroom Vanity

Kitchen Renovation

Fort Bragg, California

On a remote stretch of the Northern California coast, The Inn at Newport Ranch was conceived as a place where architecture could quietly reflect the strength and beauty of its surroundings. Sited on a 2,000-acre coastal ranch, the project draws from the land’s history and materials to create a sense of permanence and rootedness.

Reclaimed redwood, stone gathered from the property, and custom millwork define a series of intimate and communal spaces, each designed to frame views of the ocean, forest, and sky. Structural redwood trunks, some over 20 feet tall, are both expressive and elemental—bearing the story of the site as much as they bear weight.

From the placement of each stone to the alignment of solstice markers, the design is guided by a deep sensitivity to landscape and time. The result is a retreat that feels discovered rather than imposed—at once rugged, refined, and deeply connected to its setting.

The architects responsible for this project were Dave Sellers and Jim Sanford of Warren, Vermont. I had the great fortune of contributing to the design under their direction.  Their ability to shape architecture that responds so intuitively to place—at once expressive, enduring, and deeply contextual—remains a lasting influence on my own practice.

Most porch and deck structures lack imagination and creativity, especially those made of standard pressure treated lumber.
This project is an exercise in using simple, standard materials in an inspired way.

The composition of the project is composed of three main elements: a screened in porch, pergola, and a balcony.

Responsible for both the design and construction of the project, we are pleased to deliver this project to a pair of such wonderful clients.

Furniture and Objects

Concepts, Prototypes, and Built Work.

The final design selected for this extensive renovation project best addressed the project goals considering elements such as views, utilization of the existing structure, budget, functionality, etc.

With rock ledge surrounding all sides of the existing structure (and a front facade that only a mother could love) we proposed locating the addition on piers above the existing driveway. In addition to orienting the main living spaces to the views of Killington Ski Mountain beyond, and providing an opportunity for a new facade, it creates a covered parking area and a protected entrance on the lower level (no snow shovel required!)

This new structure will serve efficiently as a vital backdrop to ski outings with family and friends helping to promote the convivial atmosphere that our client desires.

Designed as an accessory structure to a single-family residence, these various options explore different themes and with slight variations of program elements, i.e. writing, lounging, sleeping, and storage.

One design element that is constant in all options is the opportunity to connect the interior space the exterior yard area through the use of a dynamic door component. Given the small size of the structure a connection to to outside both visually and physically is imperative to the quality of experience of the user.

As the project area was hidden from view from the street, exploring nontraditional options that were inline with the owner’s desired aesthetic was possible without being contextually inappropriate.

Museum Concept
Philadelphia, PA

This project transforms an existing residential home into a commercial bakery and cafe with an apartment above. We set out to do so in a way that respects the character of the old building while maximizing functionality and minimizing cost. Historic elements were carefully retained and major structural changes were limited.

Construction has been completed, goods baked, coffee brewed, and doors opened for business at 22 North Main Street in Waterbury VT. More photos and information about the bakery can be found at: www.hendersbakeshop.com

That said, a much better option would be to stop in, grab a treat, and see for yourself!

Kitchen Layout and Cabinet Design

www.benchvt.com

This proposal for a seating expansion for the Bench Restaurant in Stowe provides diners with an indoor/outdoor beer garden space that can be utilized throughout the year. Through the use of the sliding wall system, the space can be tuned to correspond to current weather conditions. This space also is intended to serve as a visual connection to potential customers, giving them a glimpse of the convivial atmosphere within.

The client suggested a modest storage structure be built in the playground to keep “Loose Parts” (objects for playing and learning based on Simon Nicholson’s theory for learning) contained during non recess hours and dry in inclement weather.

However, during investigation of the site a maintenance shed with a singular function, adjacent to playground, and in need of repair was identified. The proposed design solution suggested that rather than spending money on each item individually and serving separate functions, that their respective budgets and functions be combined into to one singular inclusive structure.

The resulting structure utilizes a large flat roof supported by the walls of the existing shed and new playful columns located within the playground area to create a covered play space with ample storage for “Loose Parts” and a greater aesthetic and functional value to the playground.

The structure was constructed in approximately 40 hours by 12 Yestermorrow design/build students, with little to no prior construction experience, as part of a two-week design build program.

Waitsfield, VT

Conceptual Design for Bar, Restaurant, and Beer Garden.