Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie

Featured in The Local Scoop Magazine
Written by Karen Newton

Timing is everything. Although a New York couple first approached Randall Kipp about building them a house a decade ago, it wasn’t until they returned five years later that the project really got underway.

The White Stone property overlooking Little Bay was low-lying, so the first thing Kipp did was bring in engineered fill to raise the property five feet for storm protection. Because the couple wanted minimal landscaping, the house sits on a simple plain of grass surrounded by a rusticated stone plinth that serves as a seawall on the waterfront side and a more refined plinth on the street approach side.

With a nod to Florentine architecture, the house was designed with a rusticated base and stone arch on the lower level. While the Florentines would have used that level for carriage storage, here it houses the rooms not central to the couple’s daily lives: laundry room, guest bedrooms and office. “The real living is done on the second and third floors,” Kipp explains. “And on those levels, the materials are much more polished.”

At the second level, a prow-shaped deck points out toward Little Bay and the screened porch becomes an extension of the interior space. Separated by a three-story glass atrium, the great room is on the right side and the primary bedroom on the left, far removed from everyone.

Because the clients didn’t want a garage, Kipp designed a carport that sits on V-shaped supports tucked under the bedroom. “I like how it floats,” Kipp says. “This house is literally two buildings, each with its own HVAC system.”

Glass panels, each 30 feet long, create a wall, with the panels sliding open and stacking to make the screened porch and the interior one expansive space. Stairs are made of steel with open risers to extend sight lines. Built as a steel structure much like a community building, the framework was then wrapped, and stucco applied, leaving the steel framing exposed inside.

Modern materials—Weather Shield glass and Unilux windows and doors—along with rusticated block, stucco and bronze mullions combine seamlessly. Says Kipp, “We were going for as much transparency as we could get.”

View the complete article and more photos here.

Photography by Anice Hoachlander

Featured in The Local Scoop Magazine
Written by Karen Newton

The lot was long and narrow, but the views of Dymer Creek were outstanding.

The Northern Virginia couple who bought the lot did so, anticipating they would eventually have architect Randall Kipp design a second home for them. That moment arrived two years ago, and the resulting home was worth waiting for.

Essentially three buildings, the house encompasses a two-story great room combining all the shared spaces: living room, dining room, kitchen, exercise room and office; a primary suite; and on the second floor, two guest bedrooms connected by a bridge overlooking the living and dining areas and providing privacy for guests. “Every room looks out to the water,” Kipp says. “They wanted expansive glass and big views to have a sense of being part of nature.”

Although Kipp had set aside room for a swimming pool, it wasn’t decided until well into the process to build it as part of the original construction.

The pool is adjacent to the primary suite and accessed by a few steps down from the couple’s bedroom door. “That way, it makes the pool almost a private gesture,” he says, adding that while guests may use it, it’s situated most conveniently for them. “An Ipe fence screens the pool area from the street, creating a sweet little courtyard.”

The fireplace in the great room is two-sided, with the outdoor side fronting an outdoor living room area boasting views of the creek to one side and the pool to another. All the expansive windows inside the house have motorized roll-down shades for privacy and sun protection.

In addition to extensive hard and soft scaping of the landscape, the area between the house and creek got a much-needed makeover. “It was mostly conifers and deciduous after we got rid of all the scrubby growth,” Kipp says. “Once we had the canopy of trees limbed up, it left just the right amount of vegetative screening to help with solar shading.”

Working with Coastal Builders, Kipp’s longtime go-to builder, resulted in a seamless process. “It was a simple project, but the results were grand.”

Click here to view the complete article with additional photos.

As published in the March 24, 2022 Rappahannock Record

Chesapeake Academy’s 8th Grade Algebra class visits the Kipp Architecture Studio.

To better understand the practical use of math in daily life, Chesapeake Academy Algebra students are completing a project to build a house using algebraic skills including scale, ratios, proportions, measurements, compound interest, and greater algebraic functions. Each Algebra student acts as an architect for a sixth grade client to develop plans for their "dream house" while staying within an allotted budget. Sam Antonio, CA eighth grader explains, "Currently, in our house building project, I am working on figuring out where rooms, bathrooms, closets, etc. are supposed to go. The hardest part about this stage is I need to figure out what room in a specific place will benefit my client and myself the most. With the budget I was given, I need to be precise and careful about where
everything will go."

Teams are learning about operating within a budget as each sixth grader has been given a career and a geographical location that can impact the size of their dream house (from doctors in Florida to service workers in the Napa Valley). Like all good architects, Algebra students have to reconcile client requests with their allotted budgets, weighing all structural essentials. Thus far, Algebra students have interviewed their clients for preferences in their dream house, calculated client budgets, determined appliances, flooring, and square footage in the house, and created initial scale drawings for their clients. Architects and clients met again as the architects shared their initial plans and gained feedback from their clients. As an architect often realizes, it's now back to the design board!

Visits to and from Randall Kipp Architecture offer students professional feedback on their designs. As students complete the process, they will use CAD modeling to finalize their designs prior to creating tagboard models for their clients.

Randall Kipp discusses the challenges involved in designing homes to the students involved in Chesapeake Academy’s house building project.

"We could teach the same skills from a textbook," explains Chesapeake Academy's Head of School Julianne Duvall. "But students would not retain the algebraic concepts as well or apply them as ably to real world situations. Connecting student learning in this way builds deeper, more useful skills; makes vibrant connections between students and professionals; and teaches a design loop process that applies problem solving skills. This is so much richer than teaching to a quickly forgotten test!"

With many opportunities for assessment, seventh grade students complete a skills based Pre-Algebra course to prepare for the eighth grade Algebra course. Math courses focus on creating deep mathematical reasoning and developing a capacity for critical thinking and problem solving. "At Chesapeake Academy, we evaluate our programs routinely looking for ways to improve. Our most recent review of the Chesapeake Academy Math curriculum reflects that receiving schools find Chesapeake Academy students well prepared.," explains Julie Duvall. "And we are proud to say that many receiving schools report that CA students are well prepared to use math in authentic situations."

By Jennifer Carmichael, Your Modern Cottage. Click Here for the Full Article

Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie

January 28, 2022 Last week, we shared the winners of the 2022 Your Modern Cottage Design Awards.  And now we’re taking a closer look at Tidewater by Randall Kipp Architecture, the winner of the New Modern Cottages category.  These are houses designed to take us away from the modern rush; provide a retreat for the families that gather there and provide a place where they can reconnect with each other. Houses submitted for this category were to be no more than 4,800 square feet.

Winning Cottage

Randall Kipp Architecture submitted the following project summary:

The property is approximately 350 acres of land in rural Virginia on what was a pre-Civil War plantation. The building site is bound on the north by wetlands, south by a classical formal garden, and is flanked on the east by the North River. The structure is approximately 3,800 square feet.

The Gallery

The concept is to anchor the building around a high ceiling space called the Gallery, which is a narrow space of 20 feet in width. All the secondary spaces nest adjacent to and around the Gallery. The notion is that it is a tall, transparent module allowing a view from the approach side of the house and out to the river beyond. 

There are two wings of the house: Master and Guest. The home is set on a plinth base to elevate it from tidal flooding and hurricanes.

The Landscape Architecture is of Asian influence, using boulders and indigenous plantings to focus energy to and lead guests to the front door, through the home, to the veranda, and the water beyond.

 “Nicely organized with a central gathering space that is thoughtfully flanked by two private bedroom wings. This layout creates two courtyards, public and private, that are knit beautifully into the surrounding natural landscape. By organizing the plan into three components, the large home is broken down into smaller scaled ‘cottages.’ Elegant glass details create uninterrupted views and connection to the gardens and the lake beyond.” ~ John Vetter, AIA, Vetter Architects, a judge for the 2022 YMC Design Awards

“Beautiful, stunning. It would be easy to imagine how this home responds to its owners. The designer successfully brought the outside in. Modern without being cold. Love how the structure frames the view at the front door. Well balanced, nicely proportioned. Open, yet still private. Well done.”  ~ Scott Edmonston, AIA, SEA Studio, a judge for the 2022 YMC Design Awards

Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie

Kipp Architecture was recently featured on Your Modern Cottage. Click here to view the full article.

This charming, modern Arts and Crafts cottage belongs in a modern fairytale. Just shy of 1,600 square feet, it was designed to respect the scale and fabric of the small village in Virginia, where it is located. In fact, it was built on the footing and foundation of a humble early-1900’s cottage.

We recently held our second annual Create for Kipp design challenge and we’d like to congratulate Matthew Bryant for winning the challenge!

This year, kids ages 4-18 were tasked with creating a design according to the following client program:

Design a dream home for our client, a famous artist. Our client loves bright colors and unique patterns. They need a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and art studio. This home will be built on a small island in the Chesapeake Bay.

• 2,000 square feet

• 1 Bedroom

• 2 Bathrooms

• 1 Art Studio

• Living Room

• Kitchen

• Deck or Porch

Matthew Bryant, age 11, submitted two fantastic island homes and blew us away with his talent and attention to detail. Along with both home models, Matthew submitted detailed floor plans to further explain each project.

Enjoy photos of Matthew’s work below.

Kipp Architecture was recently featured on Your Modern Cottage. Click here to view the full article.

Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie

This 4,000-square-foot modern cottage is just a few short blocks away from the Virginia Beach oceanfront. The owners provided us with complete artistic license to design a three-story home with a study, music room, guest apartment and a three-car garage wrapped around a private courtyard. The kicker? We had to figure out how to fit it all on a tight, urban lot measuring 120’ x 50’.

Kipp Architecture was recently featured on Your Modern Cottage

Click Here to view the full article.

Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie

“This 2,600-square-foot modern cottage overlooks the Corrotoman River in the Northern Neck of Virginia. Situated on a waterfront lot with steep wooded topography, this house was designed to be in harmony with the landscape. In addition, we wanted to create a comfortable home with incredible views.”

READ MORE

Randall Kipp, Lauren Davenport and Keith Meberg

The Art of Building and Design

by Reggie Rossignol of Chesapeake Bank

If you’re a person that would love to be submersed in the heart of nature with its ever changing, serene, and healing properties but prefers living conditions with a little more class and flair then Randall Kipp Architecture may be the perfect solution.

They have distinguished themselves as a modern architectural design firm known for their sleek lines and unobstructed views that invite the surrounding topography into the design. Not only does it serve as the aesthetic, but with the strategic placement and use of sustainable materials, it encompasses a thoughtful approach to energetic use. The end result truly is a work of art — simple and stunning.

Of course, that’s no surprise as the “artists” point to this intention in their website’s bio. “Art, as it relates to a building’s form, can take on many shapes…. light, materials, space, volume, structure, etc… and the relationship between these items.” A work of art is always the goal. The team behind Randall Kipp Architecture works to make sure that goal is the final product.

THE ARTISTS

Wisconsin native, Randall Kipp, was introduced to Irvington when an existing client, and then owner, Bill Westbrook, asked him to redesign the Hope & Glory Inn in 1993. Many visits were made throughout the project. Randall and his wife, Alison, fell in love with the little town, moved here, and never looked back.

The couple’s firm now employs five members: Randall, as the lead architect and owner, is lovingly nicknamed the "Ring Leader" by his team; Lauren Davenport, who serves as the lead interior designer and master space planner aka “Paint Picker;” Keith Meberg, “The Brain,” who is the lead architectural designer; our friend, Whitney Lang, serves as the “Trapper Keeper,” otherwise known as the studio administrator; and of course, Angus, the couple’s Scottish Terrier. He is well known as the studio greeter and mascot, and he does his part running errands and handling other business in town.

OTHER WORKS

“A big misconception people have in our area is that to design and build a modern home in rural Virginia, they must hire firms from the big cities such as Richmond, Washington, D.C., etc. People are often surprised to learn that a full-service modern architectural firm is located in the tiny village of Irvington,” says, Kipp.

Additionally, people are surprised to hear that they handle commercial projects. One of their latest works in the community is The Boys and Girls Club. Kipp had already been working with the club to redesign the site in 2018. Tragically, a fire destroyed the facility later that year. The Randall Kipp team quickly went to work with a new design. Coincidentally, Randall and Keith own the Medical Arts building in town. The Boys and Girls Club staff was able to relocate their offices and the activity center to that space in record time.

Campaign efforts and insurance legalities delayed the start of the project but construction is now in full swing and is slated for completion early 2021.

Some of the other local projects the team is responsible for are the Steamboat Era Museum, The Shops in Irvington, Westbrook Dental Office (before it became The Office Bistro), White Stone Volunteer Fire Department, The Fat Canary, The Cheese Shop, and more.

Choptank River Lighthouse is another unique project in Maryland. Along with an Airstream Travel Trailer that is now underway. (We can’t wait to see pictures when it’s complete.)

As a result of their style and versatility, the team has been covered in magazines like Archello, and House and Home. They’ve won awards in Architizer, International Property Awards, and American Institute of Architects Richmond Chapter. Their work also recently graced the cover of the annual Home and Design Portfolio book which presents the 100 top designers in the Washington D.C. area.

But it’s not all business and transactions. Their passion for architecture and education is something that they all love to share. Before COVID they frequently invited students, and anyone else, interested in architecture to visit the studio for a tour and introduction to architecture, space planning, and interior design. This year, when social distancing efforts closed schools, the team launched a “Create for Kipp Design Challenge” to keep kids inspired and having fun.

ON THE HOME FRONT

Randall says that when he and his wife moved to the Northern Neck, they didn’t intend to stay but 27 years later they can’t imagine living anywhere else. While they do work throughout Virginia and Washington, D.C., they love practicing here. For them, it’s home.

They believe the landscape of the Northern Neck is also very special — both by land and water. Their love for it and the locale, allows them to know it deeply but drives them to reveal the hidden gems. Additionally, they have made strong ties in the community between their life-long friends, and their working relationships with contractors and local officials.

They rely heavily on the owner’s input to be sure that their needs are being met, and that design carries the vision. Like pairing any mediums, it’s their expertise that allows them to select the right contractors based on their specialty for the homeowner’s individual program.

The famous painter and artist, Marc Chagall once said that “great art picks up where nature ends.” If you love the Northern Neck, Randall Kipp Architecture might be the best way to frame your favorite parts, all while giving you a masterpiece that you call home.

MAKING THE DRAW

Whether its residential or commercial design, Chesapeake Bank can finance both. Another great thing about our community is that we’re already established with many of the connections you’ll meet with Kipp’s team in the design process. We’d love to partner with you and can act as a liaison for many facets of the construction process.

View the rest of the blog here!

This home project in the Callao area landed Randall Kipp Architecture “Best of Rural Residential” in the 2020 Best of LaCantina competition. Photo by Maxwell MacKenzie

Team Kipp recently received “Best Rural” Award

“Randall J. Kipp Architecture received the “Best Rural” Award for the stunning River Point Home, a 2,800 square foot residence situated on a small peninsula just off the Potomac River. With polished concrete floors and reclaimed heart pine posts and beams, the residence was designed to symbiotically connect the interior spaces with the beautiful natural surroundings. Large 6’ wide x 10’ tall door panels by LaCantina maximize views of the water on three sides of the home and glide smoothly with minimal effort.”

Our friends at the Rappahannock Record shared this article about the honors:

Randall Kipp Architecture receives national recognition

Randall Kipp Architecture, 81 King Carter Drive, Irvington, recently received national recognition from Architizer and LaCantina Doors.

Kipp was selected as the “Best of Rural Residential” in the 2020 Best of LaCantina competition for a project in Callao.

“We are in the company of extraordinary talent and it’s great to see our project in Callao, Virginia showcased alongside incredible projects from New Orleans, Los Angeles and all around the country,” said administration and marketing coordinator Whitney Lang.

The home is a 2,800-squarefoot residence on a small peninsula just off the Potomac River. With polished concrete floors and reclaimed heart pine posts and beams, the residence was designed to symbiotically connect the interior spaces with the beautiful natural surroundings, said Lang. Large 6-foot by 10-foot sliding door panels by LaCantina maximize views

of the water on three sides of the home and glide smoothly with minimal effort.

The design team for this project included architect Randall Kipp, architectural designer Keith Meberg and interior designer Lauren Davenport.

Randall Kipp Architecture is a full service architectural studio specializing in modern residential and light commercial designs. More photos from this project can be found at kipparchitecture.com.

Click here to view our work as well as the other winners.

Randall Kipp Architecture’s work, Tidewater, was recently featured on Archello.com.

Click here to view our page on Archello

Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie

The structure is approximately 4,000 sq. ft. The concept is to anchor the building around a high ceiling space called the Gallery. All of the secondary spaces nest adjacent to and around the Gallery. The Gallery is a narrow space of 20 feet in width. The notion is that it is a tall, transparent module allowing a view from the approach side of the house and out to the River beyond. 

The Gallery separates the two wings of the house: Master and Guest. 
The Home is set on a plinth base to elevate it from tidal flooding and hurricanes. Equally, the added elevation gives the home a prominence, raising it off the ground plane. 

Shallow reflecting pools “hook” the corners of the approach side of the house. Stone slabs are layered across the pools creating a bridge to the 7-foot-wide, 11-foot-tall front door. The Landscape Architecture is of Asian influence; using boulders and indigenous plantings to focus energy ultimately leading the guests to the front door, through the home, to the Veranda, and the water beyond. 

Material Used :
1. Nichiha – Siding – Architectural Wall Panels, Vintagewood, Bark
2. Unilux – Windows and Doors – Aluminum clad wood windows and doors, Fine-Line Series
3. Bulthaup – Kitchen Cabinets – B3 Line
4. Silestone – Kitchen Countertops – Iconic White
5. Boffi – Bath Vanities – Universal Series
6. Spark Modern Fires – Gas Fireplaces – Linear Burner, 72“
7. Atlas Concorde USA – Floor Tile – Porcelain, Sunrock + Lims
8. International Wood Product – Front Door – Custom Mahogany, Pivot Hinge
9. Cabinetry - Custom
10. Miele USA – Double Ovens, Induction Cooktop, Washer, Dryer
11. Subzero Wolf – Refrigerator/Freezer

By: Mike Cahill

Originally published on Redfin

Designing a home can be an exciting, but stressful process. Intentionally designing a home that won’t go out of style can be even more so. And without a professional architect at your side or years of experience yourself, there are so many crucial considerations that can easily be missed. Whether you’re building your family’s forever home or just trying to maximize resale value when the time comes to sell, we’ve selected notable experts in the field to provide you with tips and tricks to achieve a timeless home design, both inside and out. So kick back and let these architectural veterans from Miami to Sacramento guide your design process with the most crucial considerations to ensure your home doesn’t go out of style.

Less is more

In achieving timelessness in the design of a home, we work towards the concept of simple elegance and refer to the work of master craftsmen when designing contemporary and modern projects. Contemporary Japanese Architecture does this beautifully and heavily inspired the leaders of the Arts and Crafts and Craftsmen style in the early 1900s.  Simple elegance is achieved in the way materials come together, attention to detail and an atmosphere that delights the senses, creating a connection with the home that endures over time. - Todd Jersey Architecture

The best way to design your home that won’t go out of style is to allow the architecture to be simple and straightforward to allow the furnishings to take over as trendy aspects of your home.  This way it’s easier to update for trends over time. - 45 Architecture

Choose your architect wisely

When the goal is to design a home that is timeless and that will maximize its resale value the most important decision homeowners would have to make is choosing the right architect for the project. The right architect for the project would be one who has extensive experience working with developers and that understands very well the costs of construction. One that will listen carefully to their clients' needs without imposing their own agenda. - SDH Studio Architecture + Design

Hire an architect, create a good team with a contractor that you get along with. Designing and building a home should be fun and you’re going to spend a lot of time with these people, so make sure you like them and trust them.  Rather than telling you what it should look like, they should be listening to you for what you want. - The Schimberg Group

Avoid the fads and trends

Nothing says dated like quick trends that will be gone tomorrow. This is hard to pin down but try to use concepts that have been around for a while and have shown they have staying power. Nothing says dated like mansard roofs and bad builder interpretations of the Prairie style that were so prevalent in the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s! Subway tile is all the rage right now but will it have the staying power to not look dated in 10 years? It’s hard to tell. 

Use your best judgment to decide the direction of your design but if you are unsure if your design will last the test of time consult with an experienced architect that has a tried and true portfolio of designs. Those designs should show that lasting appeal that will last for years and keep your home looking as good in the future as it does the day you moved in! - Architectural Imagineering Studio

Prioritize energy-efficient design

A house that never goes out of style is one that utilizes energy-efficient design: windows aligned in a plan to utilize natural ventilation, large overhangs for sun shading, strategic site placement for solar panels/passive heating, etc. Homes that take advantage of these (often ancient) techniques can be any style but the design is timeless because the baseline for energy efficiency is there. - Angie Lane Architecture

We use two strategies to make a home feel more timeless. First, we feel that a well-executed energy upgrade to the envelope of a home will make it less reliant on costly mechanical systems and more resilient to the unpredictability of climate change. Second, all of our projects integrate an interior flow and layout that enhances the connection to the exterior. Providing a well designed exterior space that is a destination while also highlighting the natural environment will never go out of style. - Harka Architecture

Don’t neglect function in the name of aesthetics

Key aspects of designing a home that won’t go out of style are as much about the function and appeal of interior spaces as it is about exterior architectural style.  First and foremost, tall ceilings.  Going to a 9’ or 10’ top plate, or utilizing scissor trusses for vaulted ceilings is not a big add to building cost, but it has an impressive effect on spaces. Ample windows and light make a big impact on the quality of spaces and are difficult to add or increase later on.  In regards to architectural style, interior and exterior, avoid trendy materials, or when utilized, confine them to select locations so they can easily and cost-effectively be updated when needed.  Lastly, a sensible Floor Plan layout is critical. Hire an Architect for this.  It seems simple to tick off the boxes of what rooms and sizes you might need, but a good flow takes a lot of things into account, including the placement and orientation on-site, solar direction, site features such as views, wind, proximity to the public (street) or private areas of the site.  In designing a home that won’t go out of style, think of any home you have lived in and wanted to remodel, think of the things you most wanted to change, and avoid them. - Jade Architecture

Be mindful of the surrounding landscape

Above all, timeless architecture has a strong sense of place, which is reflected in its geometry, material usage, historical context, and connection to the surrounding landscape. Meaning, the home seems to belong right where it is and you couldn't imagine it anywhere else. It's thoughtful, intentional, and functionally works now and into the future. It frames views and captures light. Over time, its materials transform and weather, becoming part of the character of the home. It has a sense of permanence and honesty that makes it feel authentic - deepening our appreciation and connection to it time and time again. - Yvonne Riggie Architecture

In terms of surroundings, a house that takes essential design cues and makes connections with the surrounding landscape and environment is also one that will last as the landscape is largely permanent. Great and lasting design references & connects to the greater context outside of itself. - Eisner Design LLC

A home that connects with nature never goes out of style.  Every site is unique.  Lake views and panoramic hills are fantastic, but so is a wonderful tree canopy, garden, or rock outcropping.  Take advantage of special views and features with strategically placed windows and doors.  Not only does it bring in lots of natural light, but seeing green plants and blue sky has a calming effect on your body.  I love to create covered porches and patios that invite you outside.  Add large glass doors that open up, a big ol’ fan, misting system, infrared heater, and you're all set to enjoy outdoor living all year round. - Architecture by George

Support the five principles of a well-built home

While many architects focus mostly on general structure and aesthetics, JCA believes that integrating sound mechanical design to support the five principles of a well-built home is paramount to the overall comfort, health, and happiness of its clients. If a space is both beautiful visually and mechanically sound — those who live in it will be healthy and comfortable, which translates to the long-term value and health of the home. - J Christopher Architecture

Understand the context of the house

When searching for a home with a timeless look, you first need to understand the context of the house,  its location and its history.  We look at whether the home is a good neighbor by responding to the scale and stylistic concerns of its neighborhood, or whether it is trying too hard to stand out. - Murdock Solon Architects

Keep it modern but don’t overdo it

Modern is here to stay, it's what buyers, especially young buyers want.  The lifestyle and vibe.  Clean lines, floor to ceiling glass, etc. But not minimalism. Minimalism is a niche market. Looks good in photos, but does anyone really live there? - Mark A Silva

Take living patterns into consideration

Study the patterns of living in your home-for example imagine yourself with a load of groceries and your phone to your ear talking with your sister--- how does the home's layout successfully get inside to quickly drop off those items and sit down comfortably to have a conversation? In another example, how does your house function when you have a number of guests-can they flow around your home and carry on a conversation or do they get stuck in rooms and have two walk single- file thru openings hindering the ability to carry on a comfortable conversation? - Cawood Architecture

Be forward-looking

When designing your forever home, consider how your home will grow with your family.  Specifically consider spaces that, in the future, might be better suited on the main level, such as the Master Suite and the laundry room.  Be prepared to spend a large percentage of your budget in the kitchen.  The kitchen has become the heart of the home and your family and friends will gather there.  Make the space fun and functional and conducive to the type of entertaining you plan to do.  Also, residential mechanical systems and home technology has really evolved.  Don't leave those conversations for later. Creatively work these new systems into the design of your home so that they are integrated throughout. - Robert William Hannon Architect

Timeless homes must consider movement. Take the time to consider how rooms that you need today could be repurposed for activities tomorrow and keep in mind that interior walls that are not structural can be removed or modified. - Randall J. Kipp Architecture

Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie

Don’t underestimate the power of natural lighting

When designing a home, natural lighting should always be assessed, as it can really shape one’s experience in a space. Natural light is a powerful influencer on our well-being, and when it comes through in architecture, art is created. The right orientation of a home can allow natural light the opportunity to create splendor within the volumes of interior spaces. Further, natural light can be transferred through a home with the application of interior windows. - Purple Cherry Architects

Create a comfortable lifestyle in and beyond the home

When we think of the great timeless designs, what they've got right is that they support enjoyable and comfortable lifestyles in and beyond the home, and improve ease and functionality overall. This can include designing for the movement of the sun, so spaces are light-filled and heated and cooled naturally. It can also include great indoor/outdoor connections so even the smallest of spaces feel expansive as they extend to views and areas beyond the home. When building, mentally rehearse the things you do every day, and design in ways to make those activities more convenient, simpler to achieve and more enjoyable. From where you leave your phone and keys, to how you entertain your friends and family on a weekend, and all the big celebrations and mundane activities in between! That's when a home makes your life better - and that's always timeless. - Undercover Architect

One theme that runs deep in EYRC Architects’ work, and we believe the key to creating a timeless design, is the connection to the outdoors. Designing a home that embraces and frames its landscape through a symbiotic relationship will help stand the test of time: the outdoors never goes out of style! - Ehrlich Yanai Rhee Chaney Architects

Achieve unity of design

Nothing looks dated faster than 'themed' rooms. On the other hand, a house that flows cohesively from the exterior structure cues down to the smallest interior details will stand the test of time. A purposefully limited palette of 3-4 materials will allow elements and rooms to relate to each other and showcase a scheme of 'total design'. - Trystcraft

Buy it right, or buy it twice

For timeless design, invest in good windows and don't skimp on crown molding and quality window trim. Choose neutral finishes such as classic white subway tile or Carrara marble in the kitchen and bath, and use paint colors and decor to change up the design through the years without major renovations. When thinking long-term value, consider a first-floor guest space that could be used as a future master bedroom for retiring in place. - Cummings Architecture

Reflect the needs of your family, with style

When choosing to build a new home, the spaces should reflect the needs of your family. However, avoid creating spaces or adding design elements that may need to be undone when the time comes to sell. Also, be careful of trends you see on television design shows. Open floor plans and shiplap interior walls are not conducive to every home. - Spotted Dog Architecture

Never accept artificial boundaries between Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design and Landscape design

A strong, timeless, design concept should influence all the disciplines needed to achieve the vision.  If your Architect does not or cannot provide design direction to the other disciplines, your house will feel divided. - Hudson Design

Originally published on Redfin

By Home & Design Magazine

“We are often taught, or teach ourselves, that good architecture must spring from urban settings,” architect Randall Kipp observes. “But my experience has taught me that life and practice in the country—in nature, surrounded by wildlife—is the true inspiration for good buildings.” His firm builds mostly on the shores of rivers, creeks and bays in the Chesapeake region.

Randall Kipp Architecture was founded in 1993 and comprises a team of six architects, interior designers and industrial engineers. Kipp brings a background in paper-making, letterpress printing, ceramics and carpentry to his work. “To me, architecture is a logical extension of these crafts, which are tactile in nature and employ form, transparency, structure and simplicity,” he notes.

Each project designer shepherds the work through the entire process, from design through construction, including the construction-document and construction-administration phases. In this way, the design intent is preserved and oftentimes amplified. “Our buildings do not stand proud and speak loudly, but blend calmly into their settings, enhancing the experience of living with nature,” Kipp says. “We pride ourselves on creating spaces that reflect our clients’ lives, and strive each day to be better designers and design better buildings—not only for our clients but also for the planet.”

Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie Architectural Photographer

Callao, VA

Irvington home featured on the cover of Portfolio

Irvington, VA

Irvington, VA

Via the Rappahannock Record on June 11, 2020

After months of weather- and coronavirus-related construction delays, the new Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Neck clubhouse is taking shape at 517 North Main Street, Kilmarnock.

A glance at the site, driving by, will now reveal exterior walls with openings for large windows, roof, concrete floor and a curious, tall architectural feature in the center of the building. That feature is the framework for a large “drum” that will contain the entrance, bringing light into a welcoming reception area where club members will be directed by age group to one of two doors leading to program space, staff to another and visitors to another.

In this second week of June, a peek inside might surprise. The building is spacious—some 15,000 square feet—so much more than the view from the street suggests, according to executive director Phillip Mumford.

With sewer and water lines in place and heating, ventilation and air conditioning duct- work being installed, it will soon be time for installation of the fire

sprinkling system, interior partitions, electric, plumbing, communication technology and security systems. Then it will be on to interior finishes.

All construction is being completed using energy-efficient building techniques and materials. Overall, the space will be light-filled, open and adaptable to the programming needs of both youth and teens.

To the side of the teen center— a wide open, partition-free area that can be arranged to accommodate a range of teen activities— will be a kitchen for the use of the club’s youth and teen chefs. An interior ramp from the rear of this area will lead directly to the 12,000-square-foot activity center with its basketball court, rooms for small group programs, special projects and arts activities.

“Our amazing team of Randall Kipp, architect, and Joe Heyman of The Allen Group, contractors, has kept us on schedule to complete construction by November 1,” said Mumford. “We can’t wait to welcome our members to their new club. Meanwhile we will provide periodic updates and welcome any questions our community might have.”

Email questions to info@bgcnn.org. To make a donation to the building fund, go to bgcnn.org.

By: The Local Scoop Magazine, Spring/Summer 2020
Photography: Maxwell MacKenzie Architectural Photographer

According to architect Randall Kipp, there’s nothing like being given a license for creativity. So, when a Washington, D.C. couple asked him to design a second home on a drop-dead gorgeous property on 37 acres in Callao, the project was right up his alley. Located on a point that juts out into Yeocomico River, the property offered dramatic views toward the Chesapeake Bay. There was just one catch: in the middle of the point was a 250-year old willow oak tree that the new owners wanted to keep.

“The essence of the design began with both the beauty of the tree and the necessity of keeping it,” Kipp explains. 

“That tree became the magic of the property, the pivotal point of my design.” He focused on creating a compound—guest quarters, garage and main house—around the tree and away from the driveway so the tree remained the centerpiece.

The couple didn’t want a tradi­tional river home. Instead, they opted for a stylized, modern design that married the home to the spectacular grounds. The finished house is not wide and can be viewed all the way through on two sides. “All the living spaces are focused toward the pool,” he says. Wrapped around the house near the pool are screened porches on three sides, with a two-sided fireplace that straddles the porch and living room.

The general contractor was Coastal Builders, Inc. and material selection was kept succinct: Cumaru teakwood, poured concrete floors in polished black, glass and a metal roof. 

The frame came from old Richmond tobacco warehouse timbers strung together for visual impact and punctuated by windows and large 28' sliding glass doors. “When those doors are open, the screened porch and house become one,” Kipp says. “And because the floors on the porch are the same poured concrete as the house and there’s no step down, there’s a beautiful easy, flowing transparency there.”

The couple found the land and wanted something special created on it. “My job is to deliver an artistic structure reflecting the way my clients imagine living their lives there.”

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Photo courtesy of the Richmond County Family YMCA

Exterior rendering by Randall Kipp Architecture

By: The Northern Neck News

The Richmond County Family YMCA believes that its building renovation and fitnasium construction is essential to the health of the community. This principle has inspired it to continue moving forward with the project throughout the pandemic.

Center executive, Shonna Sargent, says, “We are looking forward to opening the new facility in mid-to-late summer. I am very excited about welcoming our members back into the new and improved center. This will be a wonderful resource and allow the YMCA to boost its ongoing service to the community.”

The YMCA is appreciative of architect Randall Kipp for his excellent design and Joe Heyman of the Allen Group for continuing to work on this important project during the crisis. 

As shown in these photos, since the groundbreaking event on March 11, steady progress is being made toward refurbishing current space and creating new fitness areas.

From left to right. Week one saw the installation of new rubber flooring in the wellness center. During week two, the old group exercise walls came down to make way for week three’s installation of the new fitness room. In week four, the new lobby area and the welcome area appeared. And in week five, fresh flooring and carpeting were installed to join the cardio and fitness areas to the new Fitnasium.

Via the Rappahannock Record on May 7, 2020

Randall Kipp of Randall Kipp Architecture in Irvington recently announced the winners of the Create for Kipp design challenge.

'We asked kids ages 4-18 to put their architect’s hat on and create a structure and we were so impressed with the entries,' said administration and marketing coordinator Whitney Lang. 'We received wonderful creative entries that ranged from Disney boats to tiny bathrooms, tree houses to skyscrapers.'

As Virginia parents on March 23 got the news that schools would be shut down for the remainder of the academic year, the Kipp Architecture staff was in the middle of a meeting and the parents present let out a collective sigh, said Lang. Conversation shifted to keeping kids entertained and educated for the following few months.

'One thing led to another and the Create for Kipp design challenge was born,' she said. 'We knew we had to do something to inspire art and creativity for the kids while at home and we also hoped it would give parents a little relief, too.'

They received fantastic entries made from LEGOs, Lincoln Logs, MineCraft, Roblox and other building blocks and digital programs, continued Lang. A lot of the brilliant entries were made from random household items like egg cartons, straws, cereal boxes and cardboard boxes. Kids brought out the paint, glue, tape and markers to craft the details. Some kids used bark, sticks, moss and other outdoor materials to bring their designs to life.

'Randall wanted to give each child a personalized response and since we can’t invite them in for a visit at this time, we figured the next best thing would be a video. Randall and I sat down and (from a distance) reviewed all of the entries in the form of a slideshow,' she said.

This allowed Kipp time to provide feedback and praise in a way that would connect best with the kids. It also provided an opportunity to showcase the fabulous entries.

View the video and photographs at kipparchitecture.com/create. Team Kipp also sent all of the participants a bag of Northern Neck Popcorn Bag’s rainbow popcorn.

'We are so happy to have been able to provide an opportunity for kids to put on their thinking caps and immerse themselves in a project,' said Kipp. 'We were so impressed with the designs we received and can’t wait to do it again next year. There are lots of future architects and designers in our area.'

The winners are:

• Matthew Bryant, 10, Lancaster, Dream Tree House.

• Eliza Payne, 10, Roanoke, Roblox Dream Home.

• Lexi, 7, and Capri, 4, Thomas, Kilmarnock, Disney Boat.

Although the challenge is technically over, if children need a project then ask them to design a building for Mr. Kipp. 'We will be happy to receive it and send them a special note of praise and encouragement,' said Lang.

Send projects to whitney@kipparchitecture. com or tag on Facebook (@randallkipparchitecture).

Tidewater Retreat

By Julie Sanders | Photography by Maxwell MacKenzie

Clients turned to architect Randall Kipp to design a modern abode for them in Virginia’s Northern Neck. With the property’s picturesque location on a tributary of the Chesapeake Bay, the owners specified a house with “a lot of transparency,” says Kipp. “They wanted it to flow inside and out.”

The architect designed a two-bedroom, single-story structure in which every room takes advantage of the minimalist, Asian-inspired landscape conceived by ZEN Associates—and, of course, the stunning water views that extend out beyond the backyard. One wing of the house contains a master suite where the spare and serene bedroom (pictured) spills out onto the patio through sliding-glass doors framed in warm, honey-hued alder. Concealed in the wall, solar, insect and blackout screens make indoor-outdoor living easy.

Kipp designed a built-in maple bedstead and attached nightstands for the space; they complement a wall of open shelving fabricated from maple by the Woodworking Shop.

Collaborating, Creativity and Critical Thinking:

Chesapeake Academy Opens Its Arts and Innovation Hub

Written by Karen Newton
The Local Scoop Magazine Fall/Holiday 2019

When Chesapeake Academy builds community partnerships, it’s the students who become the partners.

Photo by Steve Kancianic

That means that when architect Randall Kipp was asked to become a partner, students found themselves doing computer-aided architectural design, working with mock clients and using math for measuring and budgeting. The goal is simple: to see what the children can do.

The name of the game at Chesapeake Academy is project-based learning and its home is the new Arts and Innovation Hub, opened in September. The hub is named in memory of Dianne Chase Monroe who, with her husband Sam, moved to Irvington in 1989 and built their house on Sams Cove Landing next door to the Head of the School’s house. “When Dianne died in 2017, she didn’t want flowers but instead asked those so inclined for donations to

Chesapeake Academy,” recalls Sam Monroe. “She loved what it was and how much it meant to her.”

The Hub takes over the space once occupied by the school’s library, which was moved to where a brick courtyard was, with a new patio visible through a glass wall. Large sliding doors with white boards on either side separate the two spaces, with furniture tested out by the students filling the rooms. A prism skylight allows light to pour in.

On one side of the Hub is a small group workspace and next to it, a studio with a green screen and sound and video mixing capabilities. A smooth floor surface allows easy movement for robotics. Curved bookcases and flexible seating anticipate a wide variety of activities, both school and community.

As Head of School, Julianne Duvall is Chesapeake Academy’s biggest cheerleader. Starting out as a come-here parent and board member, she served as director of guidance services at Christchurch School for five years, then Academic Dean and Assistant Head of School at Chesapeake Academy for nine years before becoming Head of School. One of her earliest goals was to find ways to integrate project-based learning while having an impact on students and the broader community.

First, William and Mary’s Center for Innovation in Learning Design came out to work with Chesapeake’s faculty about incorporating exploration, invention, design, prototype-

making and creation into the daily curriculum. When, on the second day of Duvall’s tenure as head, she got word that a donor was making a significant gift to the school, the boxes in her office hadn’t even been unpacked. Still, she knew what had to be done.

“I wanted to make sure the program was driving the creation of the space and not the space driving what we did in it,” she says. “Then I began sharing the vision in quiet ways and after six months, revealed my plan to the teachers.”

It involved breaking down barriers between academic disciplines like math and literature and providing hands-on, authentic problem-solving and design-thinking opportunities.

The curriculum addresses soft skills—communication, problem solving, resiliency—with required skills in five areas integrating art and technology: textile arts, construction, computer-aided design (CAD), robotics and audio/visual.

In textile arts, first graders learn to knit with their fingers, while older students learn to create a costume over time. In the construction strand, hand and electrical tools are taught. With CAD, students can use a laser cutter or 3-D printer to make objects they design. Robotics allows students to learn programming language and design. Movie-making and sound engineering fall under the audio/visual strand.

“There’s a benchmark that students must meet in each thread,” Duvall says. “The goal is to develop capstone

projects that students can then choose to do in any one of these threads.” Students are also welcome to use the Hub to further develop a new skill or just to tinker.

What’s important is ensuring that there’s plenty of time for every user. Direct instruction involves students being taught a specific skill such as sewing or using a drill. When a class is working on a real-life project that requires the space or tools, they’ll move to the Hub for work sessions. The final third of the time, the Hub is open to students for their own projects. 

The end goal is to get students comfortably able to work independently. “Innovation is a process that works in conjunction with our challenging curriculum to produce students who are curious, creative, flexible and can make an impact,” she says. “This is a very mission-driven program.”

One of the most exciting aspects of the Hub is its ability to be used for after-school and weekend programs by community groups. She explains, “To serve as a location for other local students to work on things is powerful.” Last year, forty 4th through 6th grade girls participated in “Girls, Gizmos and Gadgets,” a STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts and math—competition. For kindergarten and first grade girls, there’s “Girls Gear Up,” a STEAM discovery program that includes activities such as building a model race car.

“For years now, our students have become accustomed to collaborating, creativity and critical thinking,” she says of offering students open-ended problems so they can seek out authentic experiences. “As a result, our students are strong writers, confident public speakers and able to think through a variety of options.” 

The possibility of failure has been replaced with a growth mindset: if you fail, it’s an invitation to try a different way.

A student isn’t bad at reading, they’re simply not good at reading yet. “It’s all about potential and promise,” Duvall insists. “The question to our students is, what are you doing to realize that?”

Along with Randall Kipp Architecture, the school has long-standing relationships with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Friends of the Rappahannock and Tidewater Oyster Growers Association. Duvall says it’s the faculty’s interest and enjoyment of the Hub’s possibilities that are driving enthusiasm for project-based learning and its possibilities. They’ve seen how students benefit from understanding multiple viewpoints, being able to work as a team and discovering that it’s okay to go back to the drawing board. 

“Technology is one tool, but we’re teaching our students to use all the tools available to them,” Duvall says. “Digital natives need to be comfortable with technology, but listening, empathy and collaboration are just as important.”

Thank you to The Local Scoop Magazine for a wonderful article on Chesapeake Academy and the new Arts & Innovation Hub!

Read all about the Groundbreaking here!

Learn more about Chesapeake Academy by clicking here.