The House for a Clayworker is located in the North Carolina Piedmont, specifically in downtown Winston Salem. It serves as both a home and a studio for a couple who are potters. This design draws inspiration from the local ceramic tradition, particularly the unique North Carolina red clay. The house merges the occupants’ living space with their working environment, reflecting their artistic lifestyle.

Spatial Organization

The design clearly separates public and private areas, allowing for smooth movement between daily life and creative work. It occupies the western side of an infill site, surrounded by nearby buildings typical of the downtown area. This location not only optimizes the use of space but also connects to an adjacent urban art park. Here, a pottery garden features an outdoor bottle kiln, enhancing community interaction.

Light and Shadow

The play of light and shadow is a central aspect of the design. Large forms inspired by the bottle kiln extend through the roof and floor plates, bringing natural light further into the house. This interaction creates different spatial experiences, focusing attention on key areas while leaving some sections shaded, promoting a sense of calm. The ceramic screens enhance this connection, allowing filtered light to enter while providing needed privacy.

Materiality and Craftsmanship

Materials are important in linking the design to its local context. The use of North Carolina red clay and earth-cast concrete ties the house to the pottery craft that defines the couple's work. The ceramic screens are made of handmade blocks that showcase their texture and uniqueness, emphasizing the artisan quality of both the architecture and the occupants' craft.

Transitional Spaces

The first floor functions as a studio and gallery, encouraging public engagement through exhibitions and pottery workshops. A sculptural form that extends downward serves as a visual focal point, highlighting the potter's wheel while also offering visitors a place to observe the craft in action. On the second floor, private living areas are arranged from east to west, allowing residents to enjoy morning sunshine and evening twilight. This thoughtful layout connects daily activities with the changing light outside.

A roof garden on the third floor enhances the experience of light-filled spaces. It offers views of downtown and the art park, creating a sense of openness that complements the interior design. This upper garden highlights the textures of the surrounding landscape, adding a final layer of interaction with the environment.