Loyal Captain on Dezeen

Designed by Heliotrope Architects, the new kitchen and patio extension is a timeless addition to a home full of heritage. Photos by Kevin Scott.

“Heavy timber, wood and brick are among the materials used by US studio Heliotrope to create an extension to a historic 1930s home that was originally built by a Norwegian ship captain. Dating to 1933, the house was built by ship captain Ole E Nelson, who modelled it after his boyhood home in Bergen, Norway. The captain reportedly selected all of the wood used in the house and sent back pieces that did not meet his standards.

‘The original house was constructed with a very high level of craftsmanship in a style consistent with Scandinavian vernacular building traditions, and has been maintained in excellent condition,’ said local studio Heliotrope.” — Dezeen

“The team conceived a 500-square-foot (46-square-metre), post-and-beam addition on the south side of the house, in an area formerly occupied by a 1940s tennis court…The yard was re-landscaped as part of the project, which has come to be called Loyal Captain.” — Dezeen

“‘The exterior finishes of brick and stained wood are warm and subdued, matching the tone of the old house and blending into the landscape,’ the team said.

‘Large expanses of glass showcase the landscape from the interior and allow the new building to glow at night,’ the team added.” — Dezeen

“The extension's flat roof is topped with a planted garden. Heavy timber columns supporting the roof extend outward to form a loggia. The column's tapered concrete bases help with water drainage.” — Dezeen

“Within the new volume, there is a kitchen organised around a large island and a breakfast nook that looks out toward the yard. The nook's dining set was custom-designed by New York designer Bowen Liu. A Knotty Bubbles pendant by Lindsey Adelman hangs overhead. Interior finishes include polished concrete flooring, stained knotty-oak cabinetry and Quartzite countertops. Gaggenau appliances are integrated into the cabinetry.

‘The high quality of finish, detail and craftsmanship in the new addition is driven by the high standard set in the original house and aims to add something new to the history of an amazing structure,’ the team said.” — Dezeen