A Revitalized Gem: The Encinitas Residence by Unfold Projects
Nestled in the vibrant coastal town of Encinitas, California, the Encinitas Residence stands as a testament to modernist architecture and innovative renovation. Originally designed in the 1970s by Shanna Kellogg, with structural input from her father, renowned architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg, this home has recently undergone a thoughtful restoration led by the American studio Unfold Projects.
Design Heritage
The home features striking arched roofs that have become its signature aesthetic. These soaring structures not only define the exterior but also create an inviting, open atmosphere within. The aim of Unfold Projects, led by founder Mel Meagher, was not only to restore these original elements but also to infuse the residence with vitality for future artistic endeavors.
Vision for Restoration
When Meagher acquired the property in 2022, the vision was clear: to honor its history while reestablishing a connection with the natural environment. “The vision was to bring it back to what it had been, but also to reconnect it to its environment and allow reinterpretation through regional artists,” Meagher stated.
This commitment to both preservation and innovation led to the collaborative effort involving various contemporary craftspeople from the Unfold Guild network, known for their expertise across diverse artistic disciplines.
Craftsmanship and Collaborations
Unfold Projects’ director of art, Stacy Kelley, highlighted the importance of choosing collaborators who align with the ethos of the project. This approach ensured that each step in the renovation honored the craftsmanship while bringing new, meaningful contributions to the home.
Throughout the 2,500-square-foot space, multiple original features were restored or revealed. For instance, built-in bookcases added by previous owners were removed, uncovering the house’s true textures and sightlines and once again allowing natural light to flood the interior.
Embracing Sustainability
A particularly innovative aspect of the renovation was the introduction of a new copper roof, which not only enhances the home’s exterior aesthetics but also showcases sustainability. Offcuts from this new roofing material were repurposed into 21 distinct pieces of art and furniture for the residence. This creative approach is emblematic of the project’s commitment to recycling and resourcefulness.
Deconstructed materials that could not be reused in the home were donated to Habitat for Humanity, further reinforcing a commitment to sustainability and community welfare.
Artistic Touches and Natural Integration
The inside of the Encinitas Residence is a harmonious blend of old and new, where original wood elements were meticulously restored. Collaboration with designers such as Briana Ellis from Ritual Architecture and Megan Heacock White from House of Heacock helped to modernize the interiors using natural materials like teak, clay, and limestone.
One notable feature is the living wall in the primary bathroom, a nod to Kellogg’s original vision of a tree-filled atrium. This vibrant installation not only breathes life into the space but also serves as a reminder of the connection between architecture and the natural world.
The Artist Residency Initiative
Adjacent to the main residence is the Artist Flat, which once served as the original builder’s woodshop. This space will soon welcome artists, designers, writers, chefs, researchers, ecologists, and craftspeople through the biannual Unfold Artist Residency program. This initiative aims to deepen creative practices while exploring innovative forms of circularity and regenerative processes.
A New Wave of Architectural Revival
California’s mid-century architecture is experiencing a renaissance driven by a new generation of architects and designers who respect the past while embracing the present. Unfold Projects’ renovation of the Encinitas Residence is a striking example of how these principles can be harmoniously blended to create spaces that are both functional and enriching.
Nearby, other mid-century homes, like those renovated by Electric Bowery in Big Sur and OWIU Design in Los Angeles, further illustrate the dedication to preserving California’s architectural heritage while adapting it for contemporary living.
As the Encinitas Residence embraces its new role as both a home and an artistic hub, it stands as a beacon of creativity and sustainability, poised to inspire future generations of artists and architects alike.
All photography in this article is credited to Justin Chung, capturing the essence and beauty of this remarkable renovation.
For more details on Unfold Projects and their inspiring initiatives, visit their official website at Unfold Projects.