Grand Illusion

1 MIN READ

It’s not the main entrance, but this mud room entry is the one most frequented by the homeowners, so architect Jan Gleysteen felt it deserved a casual grandeur of its own. To make more out of the compact back stairwell, he wrapped the bottom stairs to create a double return design often used for sweeping entrances to public buildings. “Each stair returns on itself,” explains Gleysteen, “which encourages people to approach from both directions and also to lounge on them.” The subtly curved risers that support the elongated treads give the illusion that the stair is bigger than it actually is. Custom-made grilles mask air-return vents while also demarcating the climbing section from the “sit and take off your muddy shoes” portion of the stairs. A hand-rubbed oil finish on Honduran mahogany makes a regal statement that is toned down by the stark vertical lines of the balustrades and the wainscoting.

Sam Gray A hidden handrail is disguised as molding on top of that wainscoting. Although a full coat closet is tucked underneath the stairwell, Gleysteen speced coat hooks to add a touch of “controlled chaos that is indigenous to mud rooms.” He adds, “The exposure of the hooks adds some warmth and acknowledges the room’s functionality.” Builder: MF Reynolds, Medford, Mass.; Architect: Jan Gleysteen Architects, Wellesley, Mass.; Photographer: Sam Gray.

About the Author

Upcoming Events

  • Zonda’s Building Products Forecast Webinar

    Webinar

    Register Now
  • Future Place

    Irving, TX

    Register Now
  • Q3 Master Plan Community Update

    Webinar

    Register Now
All Events