In this episode, Cherise is joined by Christopher Rawlins, an architect and the Principal of
Rawlins Design, an award-winning architecture and interiors practice based in New York City. He authored the critically acclaimed
Fire Island Modernist: Horace Gifford and the Architecture of Seduction, and is the founder of
Pines Modern, a non-profit preservation initiative. Chris shares his experience restoring two mid-century homes in Fire Island Pines, New York.
The homes,
“Beach Hill Walk House” and the
“A Chat with Harry Bates House,” which was named as one of the top 10 houses of 2022 by Wallpaper, were designed by notable architects in the 1960’s.
Each home was in a dilapidated state when Chris was approached by the Owners. Both are studies in how to faithfully restore midcentury architecture, while incorporating resiliency and contemporary creature comforts.
These projects had unique challenges and opportunities:
- stringent zoning codes,
- careful material selection to accommodate local climate and conditions,
- limited transportation and access added complexity to construction,
- and much more!