2020  |  Battle Branch Residence  |  Chapel Hill, NC

The Battle Branch Residence is located on one of the steepest sites near Chapel Hill’s town center. Overlooking the University of North Carolina’s Battle Park and Botanical Garden, this project was worth the effort just for the view alone.

The design respects its context and also reflects our client’s vision for a modern house with space to enjoy their art and the outdoors, along with room to entertain. A landscaped entry court framed by a steel pedestrian bridge from the neighborhood drive and site walls provide privacy and a layered entry experience. The primary open-plan and high volume living space extend directly onto the terrace with a pool, providing views overlooking a forested park.

This 4,000-square-foot house is designed to accommodate our client’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle and provide them with room to entertain, a music and listening space, and gallery walls to display their art. The design respects the fabric of the Chapel Hill neighborhood by matching the scale and façade line of its neighbors and utilizing a handmade black brick.

An entry court with perennial gardens provides a dramatic entry leading the visitor into the upper level of the home, displaying the client’s art collection and providing circulation throughout the house.

The open kitchen, dining, and living space offers a panoramic view of the terrace and park beyond. A full pantry supports the double-height kitchen and offers flexibility for entertaining. The primary suite can be accessed by the gallery or the living area. The terrace features a pool and both seating and dining areas for enjoying the outdoors.

 

Photography by Jim Sink