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john lum architecture st. germain residenceThis year’s <a href="http://aiasf.org/programs/home-tours/2012-san-francisco">AIA Homes Tours </a>was all about creating open space, inviting in light, and implementing subtractive, rather than additive, gestures for modern living in historic<a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/inhabitat-san-francisco/"> San Francisco</a> homes. Consistent with these themes,<a href="http://johnlumarchitecture.com/"> John Lum Architecture</a> reconfigured the St. Germain Residence to unify the interior spaces, both horizontally and vertically, and flood the interior with light. The result is a refreshing look at mid-century references with a playful use of color and dramatic views of the San Francisco Bay. We recently toured the home as part of the <a href="http://inhabitat.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af74c97af19743c9bc6f6b0b3&id=2fca251dbc&e=7e9d38fc32" target="_blank">AIA SF</a>'s <a href="http://inhabitat.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af74c97af19743c9bc6f6b0b3&id=78037056e5&e=7e9d38fc32" target="_blank">Architecture and the City Festival</a> - hit the jump to see our exclusive photos of this stunning residence.1
john lum architecture st. germain residenceLum informed us that three existing elements inspired the new design.2
john lum architecture st. germain residenceThese include an original 1950s hanging glass <a href="http://inhabitat.com/lampada-recycles-soiled-coffee-filters-into-artistic-light-fixtures/">light fixture</a>, the classic modern terrazzo faced fireplace, and the original solid wood front door.3
john lum architecture st. germain residenceAs Lum explained, remodeling an existing house is often about "reinterpreting vessels" for a new spirit.4
john lum architecture st. germain residenceBy playing off existing elements and staying true to the home’s historic integrity, Lum laid the groundwork for a budding modern family in this home.5
john lum architecture st. germain residenceThe<a href="http://inhabitat.com/striking-spanish-high-school-shows-respect-for-its-rural-site/"> terraced landscaping</a> literally spills out of the completely remodeled basement, which now boasts an ample den, study, guest suite, and wine cellar.6
john lum architecture st. germain residenceNew bedrooms below street level have picture framed views of the city, with maximum privacy.7
john lum architecture st. germain residenceA reading room/lounge at the top of the staircases is filled with natural light.8
john lum architecture st. germain residenceLarge windows stream natural light into many of the rooms on the top floor.9
john lum architecture st. germain residenceAn upper level room hosts a play space in its current occupation.10
john lum architecture st. germain residenceA modern take on the his/hers lavatory, this one unifies the room while providing much coveted space.11
john lum architecture st. germain residenceThe original stone fireplace anchors the family room, that is now much larger and open to views at the rear.12
john lum architecture st. germain residenceThe new cantilevered stair provides a vertical connection between floors while washing the lower levels with light.13
john lum architecture st. germain residenceOpening up the rear facade to sweeping views provides a fresh look outward from the original 1950s style home.14
