Going from the Big Apple — the city that never sleeps — to Portlandon the other side of the country, in the state of Oregon, is a somewhat radical decision. However, this is what Michelle Goad and Wolf Klinker, in search of serenity, decided to do with their two children, Axel, 3 years old, and Coco, 9 years old. Once there, it took them a year to find the house they could imagine themselves in.
The nugget that the couple unearthed is signed Pietro Belluschione of the leaders of the modern movement, awarded the American Rome Prize in architecture in 1954. She is called the Joss Housein reference to the last name of the first owners, Mary and Phillip Joss. Designed in the shape of an L – one of the Italian-American architect’s trademarks – the 1941 construction, which extends over just over 230 m2, has an open plan, characteristic of the style mid-century. It consists of promoting fluid circulation between spaces and connection with the surrounding landscape. While the private wing groups the bedrooms, the public wing includes the main living space with its vaulted wooden ceiling, light cedar walls and original all-concrete fireplace, the centerpiece of the living room.
The “LCW” chair matches the side table, both by the Eames, while the “Miró Miró” mirror from Friends and Founders adds depth.
In the dining area, which overlooks the garden, table by De La Espada, objects by Nik Nik Studio.
“I never imagined living in a house with all wooden walls”says Michelle, who was particularly seduced by the large bay windows offering a magical view of the garden where a field of daffodils and a magnificent cherry tree bloom in the summer.
For this architectural gem, the interiors had to be warm and consistent with the place. “As soon as we moved in, we realized that our New York furniture didn’t work here”remembers Michelle. “I started looking for ideas on Pinterest where I found a lot of architecturally similar houses in Byron Bay, Australia. This is how I came across the work of Simone Haag, based in Melbourne, to whom we entrusted the interior design. »
Interior stylist Karie Higgins redesigned the entire decor of this mid-century home while preserving its soul.
Michelle and Simone then brought together pieces from all over the world to dress the different nooks and crannies. Then, after living six years in this peaceful setting, Michelle turned to interior stylist Karie Higgins to rethink spaces as a prelude to a new chapter, both for the family and for the home. Karie’s main goal was to emphasize the original mid-century aesthetic while infusing contemporary style with a mix of vintage items and creations by local artists — all in just six weeks. The neutral and natural palette of colors and materials complements touches of sage green and caramel-rust. “Every decision was made to pay homage to the architecture”confides Karie. “I focused on simple, sculptural gestures that bring out the lines of the house while adding personality. »
Wood, wicker, hand forged, ceramic, stone and linen provide texture and depth. A “P3” rattan chair by Tito Agnoli, a small wooden table by Vince Skelly, a 1960s light fixture by Louis Sognot, a work by Charlie Salas-Humara above the Pop and Scott sofa and a pendant light by Hay are some of the elements that adorn the house. For inspiration, Karie also looked to Axel Vervoordt and Vincent Van Duysen – particularly their restrained approach to reviving spaces with soul.
“This house was ideal for getting together and enjoying moments of peace surrounded by nature”confides Michelle, who is now ready for a new adventure, with a move in sight to another, sunnier region. “Wolf and I met in California and we had always dreamed of going back there. Following Covid, we said to ourselves “why not now…”. » Notice to those interested: the Joss House has just been put back on the market.
In front of the original shelves made by Pietro Belluschi, “P3” wicker chair by Tito Agnoli. Beside it, the wooden sculpture which serves as a side table is signed by designer Vince Skelly.
A ceramic piece by local artist Blaine Peters (Wilma) takes place on a 1960s pedestal.
